Dr Oburu Odinga, ODM party leader, was admitted to a hospital in Nairobi and subsequently flown to India for further medical treatment accompanied by Oketch Salah.
Robert Alai has accused top ODM leadership of causing Oburu Odinga’s current health problems. The outspoken Kileleshwa MCA claims that frequent helicopter travel has put too much pressure on the elderly politician, leading to his recent hospital admission.
Oburu Oginga, who took over key leadership roles in ODM after his brother Raila Odinga’s passing, was admitted to a Nairobi hospital two weeks ago. He was later flown to India for further treatment. Sources say he is currently in Mumbai, where businessman Oketch Salah is taking care of him. This development has raised concerns within the party and across the political landscape in Nyanza.
Alai did not hold back in his criticism. He argued that party leaders should respect Oburu’s age and condition by reducing demanding travel schedules. He suggested the party needs to start thinking about a stand-in leader or patron role for Oburu to allow him proper rest and recovery.
His comments have sparked lively debates online and in political circles, with some agreeing that elderly leaders deserve better protection while others see it as an attack on the current ODM structure.
The Odinga family holds a special place in the region, and any health concerns involving them quickly become a community matter. Local leaders have called for prayers and urged the party to give Oburu space to focus on his well-being.
Oburu has been a steady figure in Kenyan politics for decades. His recent role carrying forward the ODM vision came with heavy responsibilities, including meetings, rallies, and constant movement across the country.
Helicopter travel, while fast, can be physically demanding, especially for someone of his age. Friends of the family say he has always put duty first, sometimes at the expense of personal health.
The presence of Oketch Salah in India has also drawn attention. Salah was close to Raila Odinga during his final days and now appears to be supporting Oburu in the same way. This has comforted some supporters who see it as a sign of continued loyalty within the inner circle.
Alai’s remarks come at a time when ODM is navigating internal questions about direction and leadership. Some party members believe fresh faces and structures are needed, while others insist on maintaining strong ties to the Odinga legacy. The conversation Alai started has brought these tensions into the open once again.
Ordinary citizens have shared their thoughts on the matter. A teacher in Bondo said Oburu deserves rest after years of service to the community. A young voter in Kisumu wondered whether the party is pushing its leaders too hard in the name of unity. These voices reflect genuine care mixed with practical worries about what lies ahead for ODM.
Health matters involving public figures always attract speculation. In this case, the combination of hospital visits, international travel for treatment, and public accusations has kept the story alive. Party insiders say they are monitoring Oburu’s progress closely and hope for positive news from India soon.
As Oburu receives treatment abroad, many Kenyans are watching how ODM handles the situation. Strong institutions matter more than individuals, yet the personal well-being of leaders like Oburu affects the morale of supporters. Alai has urged the party to act responsibly and plan for the future without overburdening senior members.
Supporters continue sending well wishes to Oburu Odinga. They hope he returns stronger and continues guiding where needed, while also getting the rest his body clearly requires. For now, the focus stays on his recovery and how the party balances respect for elders with the demands of modern politics.
