Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party leader Oburu Odinga has for the first time publicly addressed persistent reports about his alleged death and declining health, firmly dismissing them as baseless propaganda by political detractors.
Speaking on Saturday in Migori County during a public event attended by President William Ruto and senior ODM leaders, Oburu declared that he is in good health and has no intention of exiting the political scene any time soon.
The veteran politician, who is 82 years old, compared himself to United States President Donald Trump, noting that age should not be used to undermine one’s ability to lead.
“Those prophets of doom who think I am going to die soon should be ashamed. I am here to stay. I am now the same age as Donald Trump and ready to do politics like never before,” Oburu said, drawing cheers from the crowd.
Oburu, who recently assumed the leadership of ODM following Raila Odinga’s transition to a broader national role, reiterated his commitment to sustaining the broad-based government arrangement. He described the framework as the most strategic position for ODM in the current political climate.
He emphasized that the unity arrangement crafted by his brother Raila Odinga must be protected, saying it offers the party stability, influence, and relevance in national governance.
President Ruto, on his part, welcomed ODM’s participation in the broad-based government, stating that his administration had deliberately allowed the party space to strengthen its internal politics.
“I have allowed ODM to do its politics freely and to grow stronger so that it can be part of my next government,” Ruto said.
The remarks signal a deepening collaboration between ODM and the ruling administration ahead of the 2027 general elections. #Oburu