- ODM leader Oburu Oginga was absent from the first anniversary memorial for his younger brother, Raila Odinga, in Bondo.
- His sister, Wenwa Akinyi Oranga, told mourners that he was recovering and had been advised to rest.
- Kisii Governor Simba Arati was designated to read Oburu’s speech during the main ceremony.
- The memorial formed part of events marking one year since Raila’s death.
Siaya Senator and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Oginga was absent from the memorial marking one year since the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The ceremony was held at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, bringing together political leaders, dignitaries and mourners to remember the late opposition leader. Oburu’s absence was attributed by his family to his ongoing recovery and the need to follow medical advice. The occasion also coincided with his 83rd birthday.
Oburu did not attend the candle-lighting vigil held on Wednesday evening or the main memorial service on Thursday, according to the information provided by the family. His sister, Dr Wenwa Akinyi Oranga, conveyed the family’s apologies to those gathered. She said he was making progress but had been advised to rest and avoid strenuous engagements. The family did not provide further medical details in the statement described at the event.
With the ODM leader unable to attend, Kisii Governor and ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati was designated to deliver his official speech during the main ceremony. The arrangement allowed Oburu’s message to be shared with mourners despite his absence. Arati is among the party’s senior figures and was expected to represent the senator at the gathering. The speech was scheduled as part of the memorial programme.
This was reportedly the second major event commemorating Raila that Oburu had missed in October. He was also absent from the dedication of Raila’s mausoleum on October 7. On that occasion, his son Jaoko Oburu conveyed his regrets. The repeated absences have been explained by the family as part of the senator’s recovery process.
Earlier this week, ODM’s communications team reportedly issued a statement dismissing rumours circulating on social media about the senator’s condition. The party said Oburu was resting but remained mentally alert and involved in national and party affairs. The clarification followed growing public attention over his absence from key events. No detailed medical report was provided in the information supplied.
The family’s latest message maintained that the senator needed time to recover before resuming demanding public engagements. His sister asked those attending the memorial to understand his absence as he followed medical guidance. The family’s explanation focused on his recovery rather than any change in his political responsibilities. Oburu’s condition has not been independently assessed for this report.
The memorial at Kang’o ka Jaramogi formed part of a series of events honouring Raila’s life and political legacy. The gatherings brought together leaders, relatives and members of the public to reflect on his contribution to Kenya’s political history. The programme included a candle-lighting vigil and the main anniversary ceremony. The events were intended to bring together supporters and family members in remembrance of the former Prime Minister.
Raila remained a prominent figure in Kenyan politics for decades, serving as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and running for president several times. His first death anniversary has drawn attention from across the political landscape, with the memorial programme providing an opportunity for tributes from family, colleagues and supporters. The Bondo gathering marked the culmination of a week of commemorative activities, according to the information provided.
