ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga has confirmed he is in the United Kingdom for a routine medical check-up, assuring party members that he remains confident in the movement’s leadership structures.
In a statement, Oburu said the visit followed advice from his doctors and the party leadership and would also give him time to rest and rejuvenate.
“I am currently in the United Kingdom (UK) to undergo a thorough, routine medical checkup,” Oburu said.
“This visit follows the direct advice of both my doctors and the party leadership to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of my health, while allowing me a dedicated period of rest and rejuvenation.”
Oburu said his absence offered an opportunity to test ODM’s institutional strength and its ability to operate effectively beyond individual leaders.
“As I attend to these personal health routine checks, that naturally come with advancing years, I view taking this step back as a deliberate, strategic moment for our movement,” he said.
“This is a time of transition, where the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is being tested on its readiness and preparedness on institutionalism. I welcome this test.”
Oburu said ODM had the internal mechanisms and systems required to keep its national operations running without interruption.
“Our party possesses the internal mechanisms, the democratic maturity, and the systems to handle day to day activities seamlessly. To ensure that our national operations continue without a moment’s interruption,” he said.
He said Deputy Party Leaders Paul Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, together with the National Central Committee and the party secretariat, would oversee the movement’s affairs during his absence.
“As an elder who has walked this long journey with you, I have absolute faith in their collective leadership, discipline, and vision to steer our movement effectively,” Oburu said.
He urged ODM members and supporters to cooperate with the party leadership and remain united.
“I urge all party members, officials, and the millions of Kenyans who look to us for leadership to accord them the utmost cooperation, stay unified, and remain focused on our shared national goals,” he said.
Oburu also thanked members and supporters for their prayers, goodwill and continued support.
