Orange Democratic Movement leader Oburu Oginga has spoken publicly for the first time since entering Nairobi Hospital, using his birthday on Thursday, October 15, to thank those who organised a surprise for him and to address rumours circulating about his condition.
In a message issued from the hospital, Oburu expressed gratitude to his family, medical staff and party associates. He did not disclose the nature of his illness, how long he has been hospitalised, or when he expects to be discharged.
His acknowledgement of Nairobi Hospital staff confirmed he was receiving care there, though the message stopped short of providing a medical update or identifying the source of the death rumours.
The occasion carried a sombre weight. Oburu’s younger brother, Raila Amolo Odinga, died on the same date, October 15, making the birthday a painful reminder of the loss.
The former prime minister’s death has given the date a significance that now overshadows any celebration.
Reflecting on their relationship, Oburu described his bond with Raila as one that death cannot break. “Physical separation cannot touch a brotherhood written in the heavens,” he said, adding that he carries his younger brother’s spirit within him. He called the coincidence of their birth and Raila’s death a divine testament to their connection.Oburu singled out his spouses, Dr Ann Oburu and Mama Judith Oburu, for their care during what he described as a difficult period.
He also thanked Nairobi Hospital’s medical staff for their professionalism and kindness, and acknowledged the ODM fraternity, represented at the celebration by party trustee Elder Joshua Kawino. His domestic staff and the team at Pawaa Centre were credited with helping organise the surprise.
The message offered a rare personal glimpse into his circumstances at a sensitive moment for both the Odinga family and the ODM party, whose senior leadership remains under public scrutiny.
While it provided reassurance that Oburu could communicate publicly and acknowledge those around him, it was not a comprehensive medical report or confirmation of recovery.
He ended by thanking everyone who made the day comforting and asked God to bless his family, caregivers and political colleagues.
What would ordinarily be a moment of celebration has instead become a personal intersection of gratitude, hospital care and remembrance of a brother whose death has permanently changed the meaning of the date.
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