Nairobi, Kenya – October 5, 2025 – The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has dismissed widespread rumours suggesting that its party leader, Raila Odinga, is battling health complications.
In a statement released on Sunday, ODM rubbished claims that Odinga’s recent absence from public events was due to illness, terming the allegations “false and politically motivated.”
Raila Odinga is Not Ailing, Says ODM
According to the party, Odinga left the country on Friday for an undisclosed mission and is in good health. ODM maintained that if the opposition leader were unwell, he would have informed Kenyans himself.
“Hon. Raila has a strong tradition of being open and generous with the country on matters of his health,” the statement read.
“He told the country that he was undergoing a procedure when he was hospitalized as Prime Minister in June 2010, and again in 2021 when he was diagnosed with COVID-19. He would do the same today were he to be in such a situation.”
The party accused a section of political rivals of spreading false information to destabilize Odinga’s image and weaken President William Ruto’s political standing.
ODM Blames Rivals for Spreading Falsehoods
ODM alleged that Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, DAP-K boss Eugene Wamalwa, and other opposition figures were behind the misinformation.
The party claimed the same political faction previously led a smear campaign against Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson seat earlier in the year.
“The misinformation is broadcast by the same team that went on a frenzy against Hon. Raila’s bid for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission,” ODM said.
ODM reaffirmed that Odinga remains active and in good health, urging supporters to disregard the rumours and remain focused on national unity and opposition priorities.
