Ruth Odinga says ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga has travelled to Dubai for a short, three-day trip to rest after a highly demanding political period, particularly following the death of his brother and ODM founder, Raila Odinga.
Raila Odinga, 80, passed away last month in India while receiving medical treatment. His death was announced by President William Ruto, who declared a seven-day period of national mourning and ordered flags to be flown at half-mast across the country. Raila was accorded a state funeral, attended by thousands of mourners, marking the end of a defining era in Kenya’s political history.
Oburu Oginga, who has now assumed leadership of ODM following his brother’s passing, has been at the centre of managing party affairs during this sensitive period. Party insiders say he has faced intense pressure, coordinating funeral arrangements and ensuring continuity in the party’s national and regional activities.
Ruth Odinga described Oburu’s Dubai trip as purely personal. “After a very hectic political period, he needed time to rest. This is just a short break,” she said, emphasizing that he remains fully engaged with party matters despite the brief absence.
Social media speculation linking the trip to political manoeuvres was quickly dismissed by Ruth Odinga. “Leaders are human too. He needed rest, that’s all,” she said, urging the public to respect Oburu’s privacy.
Political analysts note that Oburu’s brief absence comes at a crucial moment. With Raila’s passing, a leadership void has emerged within the opposition, and ODM is expected to undergo significant internal discussions about its future direction ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
The state funeral for Raila Odinga was marked by unprecedented crowds, with thousands gathering at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to receive his body. Reports indicate that some sections of the crowd led to disruptions and injuries, highlighting both the emotional weight of the loss and the enduring influence Raila wielded across Kenya.
Ruth Odinga said Oburu is expected back later this week and will resume his duties immediately. “Three days is not a long time. He will be back to continue serving the party and the country,” she said.
Raila Odinga’s death leaves a profound gap in Kenyan politics, closing a chapter on a leader who championed reform and opposition politics for decades, while thrusting his brother Oburu into a critical role at a sensitive national moment.
