ODM Slams Illness Rumors, Affirms Raila Odinga Is Not Hospitalised

ODM Slams Illness Rumors, Affirms Raila Odinga Is Not Hospitalised

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has fiercely denied claims that its party leader Raila Odinga is hospitalised or unwell. The statement, released Sunday morning, comes amid growing speculation over Raila’s health and whereabouts.

“He Is Not Indisposed”—ODM Clears the Air

According to ODM, Raila left the country on Friday, October 3, for one of his routine trips. However, contrary to media reports, he did not travel to Europe for treatment.

“Hon. Raila travelled out of the country on Friday evening—one of many trips this year,” the statement read. “He definitely did not travel to Europe as reported by bloggers,” it added. “He is not indisposed, as prayed for by his frustrated opponents,” ODM emphasized.

The party insisted that if Raila were ill, a public statement would have been issued, as has been done in the past.

“This Is Misinformation”—ODM Blames Opposition for Rumors

ODM accused the United Opposition, led by Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, and Eugene Wamalwa, of orchestrating the false reports.

“Gachagua and his struggling team are on a familiar campaign of misinformation,” the statement declared. “They aim to discredit Raila’s influence,” it added.

The party further claimed that mainstream media had picked up AI-generated images and unverified blogger content, presenting them as investigative journalism.

“Where Is Raila?”—Media Speculation Fuels Public Concern

Raila’s absence from public events over the past two weeks sparked concern. On Friday, October 4, The Star ran a front-page headline asking, “Where Is Raila?”

“His silence has triggered unnecessary panic,” said a concerned ODM supporter. “We deserve truth, not propaganda,” another added.

The timing of his absence coincided with ODM’s planned 20th anniversary celebrations, which were postponed.

“We Want Inclusivity”—ODM Explains Event Delay

The anniversary, initially scheduled for October 10–12 in Mombasa, was pushed to November 14–16. The planning committee cited the need to engage more counties.

“After careful consideration, the Party Leader graciously agreed to expand the program,” the committee stated. “We aim to ensure inclusivity before converging in Mombasa,” they added.

Despite the rumors, ODM reaffirmed Raila’s commitment to unity and national stability.

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ODM Slams Illness Rumors, Affirms Raila Odinga Is Not Hospitalised