ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga is in the United Kingdom for a routine medical check-up, his office has confirmed, days after he made a brief visit to a Nairobi hospital.
In a letter addressed to ODM members, supporters and the public, Oburu’s office said the trip followed advice from his doctors and the party leadership to allow him to undergo a comprehensive health assessment while taking time to rest.
The communication sought to ease concerns over the veteran politician’s health while assuring supporters that ODM operations would continue uninterrupted during his absence.
According to the letter, Oburu views the temporary break from active party engagements as an opportunity for ODM’s leadership structures to continue steering its affairs.
His office described the medical assessment as part of routine health checks associated with advancing age, while stressing that the ODM leader remained focused on the party’s direction.
Oburu said Deputy Party Leaders Paul Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir would oversee party activities alongside the National Central Committee and the secretariat.
“To ensure that our national operations continue without a moment's interruption, the party has able stewards in Deputy Party Leaders, Paul Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, working hand in hand with our highly capable National Central Committee and secretariat,” the letter said.
The statement appears aimed at reassuring party members that Oburu’s absence will not disrupt ODM’s political and administrative operations.
It comes amid heightened public interest in his health following his brief visit to a Nairobi hospital last week.
Oburu’s office has maintained that the UK visit is for a routine medical assessment rather than an indication of a major health concern.
The development also puts the spotlight on ODM’s leadership structure and its ability to maintain continuity when the party leader is away.
Arati, who is also Kisii Governor, and Nassir, the Mombasa Governor, are among senior officials tasked with supporting the party’s national operations alongside its top decision-making organs.
Oburu is expected to resume his political engagements after completing the medical review and period of rest.
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