Fake News: ODM says Oburu Oginga well after social media health reports

The office of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Dr Oburu Oginga on Tuesday dismissed reports circulating on social media about the Siaya senator’s health, saying he was well, safe and in good spirits.

In a statement, the Dr Oburu Oginga Secretariat described the reports as “malicious, unfounded fake news and propaganda” and urged the public and media to rely on official communication about his health.

The office said Oburu remained mentally alert and engaged in party and national affairs, but was following doctors’ instructions to rest and limit strenuous physical activity.

“We wish to assure the general public, members of the ODM, the people of Siaya County, and the entire nation that Dr Oburu Oginga is well, safe, and in good spirits,” the statement said.

The secretariat said Dr Oburu was preparing his official speech for the handover ceremony of the late Raila Odinga Mausoleum at Kang’o ka Jaramogi when the reports about his health began circulating online.

It said the senator was observing “strict directives from his doctors” to take forced rest and reduce heavy physical engagements, while remaining updated on developments and involved in key party and national matters.

The statement followed concerns over Dr Oburu’s health after his recent visit to Nairobi Hospital.

ODM Director of Communications Philip Etale had earlier sought to reassure the public, saying Dr Oburu had gone to the hospital for a routine check-up.

“Dr Oburu is back. He went to Nairobi Hospital for a routine check-up,” Etale said, adding that there was “no cause for alarm”.

Etale also said Dr Oburu would scale back his political activities for several weeks while he rested before resuming his engagements.

“He’ll not be actively involved in politics for the next few weeks or so. He’ll be back in the fullness of time,” he said.

Dr Oburu’s office warned those circulating what it described as misinformation to stop, saying the party leadership was consulting on possible legal action.

IIt urged the public and media to disregard what it called sensational reports and instead rely on official communication channels.