ODM leader Oburu Odinga has travelled to Dubai for a three-day trip to rest after a hectic political schedule. His family has denied rumors of illness, stating he is in good health. This is his first trip abroad since his brother Raila Odinga's death.
Oburu Odinga, leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has left the country for a three-day trip to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to rest. The trip was announced by his sister Ruth Odinga on Saturday morning and confirmed by Odinga himself on Friday via social media. It is his first journey abroad since the death of his brother Raila Odinga on October 15, 2025, who succumbed to a cardiac arrest during a morning walk in India.
Odinga, 82 years old and Siaya Senator, had been involved in intense political activities recently, including the ODM's 20th anniversary celebrations held in Mombasa from November 13 to 16. During that time, he led strategy sessions, meetings with party officials, and public events. Just days later, on November 19, he joined ODM campaigns in Kasipul to support candidate Boyd Were in a by-election.
"Feeling grateful for good health and high spirits. Taking a short sabbatical to recollect, recharge, and reset," Odinga posted on his social media account. His sons Elijah Oburu and Jaoko Oburu Odinga have endorsed and reposted the announcement, denying any health rumors. "It's true. He is not ill. I can't mislead you," Elijah told Taifa Leo.
The trip occurs amid internal wrangles within ODM among leaders over the party's political stance. Some Kenyans have speculated about the sudden decision, just two weeks after Odinga assumed party leadership, which has faced resistance from certain ODM politicians.