Oburu breaks silence after missing Raila’s first anniversary as he celebrates birthday

By  Rushdie Oudia

Correspondent

Nation Media Group

ODM leader Oburu Oginga has paid tribute to his younger brother Raila Odinga on the first anniversary of his death, describing their bond as one that transcends physical separation, as he thanked family members and supporters who stood with him on his birthday.

In a statement released on Thursday, October 15, Oburu, who was unable to attend the commemorations in Siaya County on the same day, said that the coincidence of his birthday and his brother's death anniversary was a deeply personal reminder of their connection.

“Marking another year of my own birth on this very day brings a bittersweet reflection, knowing it is also the date my beloved younger brother, Baba Raila Amolo Odinga, departed to be with the Lord. To have been born on this day and for you to have departed on this same date is a divine testament to the invisible thread that binds our souls," he said.

Photos of Oburu cutting a birthday cake, surrounded by family and friends, were also shared.

Oburu said physical separation could not break the bond between Raila and him, adding that he continued to carry his brother's spirit within him.

“Physical separation cannot touch a brotherhood written in the heavens,” he said, wishing Raila peaceful rest.

The Siaya senator also expressed gratitude to his spouses Dr Ann Oburu and Mama Judith Oburu, staff at Nairobi Hospital, members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), his domestic staff and the team at Pawaa Centre for organising a surprise to mark his birthday.

His absence from the anniversary commemorations came as Raila’s family, political allies and ODM supporters gathered to honour the former Prime Minister, whose death in India on October 15, 2025, marked the end of an era in Kenyan politics.

During the event in Migweni grounds, Mama Ida had assured Kenyans that Oburu was doing well and resting on doctors’ advice.

She said her brother in law was unwell but not seriously ill.

"Oburu is finea nd doctors told him to rest and stay away from a rowdy rally like this,” Ida said.

Separately, in a speech delivered by Kisii Governor Simba Arati, Oburu had said he was following strict medical instructions to rest, but maintained that his mind remained focused on the Orange Democratic Movement's political agenda.

"While my doctors have mandated a strict regimen of bed rest and ordered zero public appearances for the immediate future to guarantee a full and swift recovery, my heart, mind and spirit are firmly with you at Migwena Cultural Ground," he said.

Oburu also thanked ODM trustee Elder Joshua Kawino for representing the party fraternity, saying the support extended to his family had made the day comforting despite its solemn significance.

“Your love and presence have made this solemn yet special day truly comforting. May God bless you all abundantly,” he said.

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