Raila Sends Message To Kenyans Amidst Claims Of Being Admitted In Hospital

Following widespread speculation about Raila Odinga’s health, the former Prime Minister has personally dismissed the rumours, assuring Kenyans that he is in good health.

Speaking by phone to ODM Communications Director Philip Etale on Tuesday afternoon, October 7, Odinga rubbished claims about his illness, describing them as baseless online gossip.

Etale said the opposition leader was in high spirits during their conversation and had sent warm greetings to Kenyans. He also confirmed that Odinga remains abroad but is scheduled to return to the country in the coming days.

An image of Orange Democratic Movement party leader, Raila Odinga, on October 3, 2025. /ODM

"I have spoken with HE Raila Odinga just under five minutes ago. He is jovial and happy. "I am seeing people spreading so much propaganda online, let's keep praying for them", he says," Etale wrote on his social media accounts.

He added, "He has sent me to convey his greetings to all of you and says he will be back in a few days."

Raila Odinga’s recent absence from the public eye has sparked widespread speculation among Kenyans, with many questioning the truth behind his health status.

Etale’s statement followed shortly after ODM leaders dismissed claims about Odinga’s alleged ill health, labelling them as false and misleading. In a statement issued on Sunday, October 5, the party clarified that the ODM leader had travelled abroad for personal reasons — not for medical treatment, as some reports had suggested.

“Honourable Raila travelled out of the country on Friday evening, one of many trips he has made this year and definitely not the last,” the party said. ODM further refuted claims that Odinga had travelled to Europe, insisting that such reports were fabrications by political detractors.

“He definitely did not travel to Europe as reported by bloggers and some of the broadcast media. He is not indisposed as prayed for by his frustrated opponents,” the statement added.

Speculation about Odinga’s whereabouts began circulating in early October after ODM postponed its 20th Anniversary celebrations, which had been set for October 3 in Mombasa.

Why Did This Matter?

Raila Odinga isn’t just another politician — he’s one of the most influential and polarizing figures in Kenya’s political history. His every move sparks national interest, and any hint about his health or whereabouts tends to trigger widespread speculation.

For many Kenyans, especially his supporters, Odinga represents stability, hope, and continuity within the opposition. So when rumours about his health started spreading online — combined with his sudden silence and the postponement of major ODM events — it naturally raised concern and uncertainty about the party’s direction and leadership.

On the flip side, his critics and political rivals saw the speculation as a chance to question ODM’s internal organization and succession planning, especially as the country gears up for future elections.

At a deeper level, the incident showed how much power misinformation still holds in Kenya’s political landscape. In an era where social media often fuels unverified stories, the rumours surrounding Raila’s health exposed how fast false narratives can spiral and influence public perception — even without evidence.

So, beyond curiosity, this mattered because it touched on leadership stability, political trust, and the role of information in shaping Kenya’s political discourse.