ODM Takes Mobilisation Campaign to Turkana as Oburu Misses Planned Visit

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Deputy Leader Simba Arati has urged party supporters to turn out in large numbers for an upcoming mobilisation drive in Turkana County.

The Kisii Governor announced the planned visit in a public message accompanied by a photograph of himself with Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga. Arati called on members to support the party’s activities as it seeks to strengthen its grassroots structures across the country.

The Turkana visit is part of ODM’s efforts to expand its presence beyond its traditional strongholds ahead of the 2027 General Election. The party is seeking to build support in new regions as political leaders position themselves for the next electoral contest.

However, Oburu is not expected to join the delegation travelling to Turkana as he continues to recover following a recent hospital stay. His absence has not stopped the party’s mobilisation activities, with other senior officials taking leading roles in its outreach programme.

Oburu’s health became a subject of public discussion after reports emerged that he had been admitted to hospital. The episode coincided with events marking one year since the death of his younger brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Photographs of Oburu celebrating his 83rd birthday while receiving medical care prompted further questions about his condition. The senator had previously dismissed reports that he was seriously ill, describing an earlier hospital visit in Nairobi as a routine medical assessment.

He also denied claims circulating on social media that visitors had been restricted or that information about his health was being withheld. Oburu said he was recuperating at his Nairobi residence and pledged to inform the public if there were any significant changes in his condition.