ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has confirmed that his younger brother Raila Odinga has been unwell for a while, but is now recuperating in India.
Dr Oginga’s sentiments came days after speculation and contradicting statements about the Orange Democratic Movement Party Leader’s health status.
Speaking during an interview with the media in Ugunja and in a breakfast show with a vernacular radio station radio Nam Lolwe, Dr Oginga stated that the illness was not life threatening.
“Raila, just like any other human being, was indisposed a few days ago but at the moment he is doing fine. He went for a check-up in India and he is now recuperating,” said Dr Oginga, who is also the Odinga family spokesperson.
His sentiments differ with that of Mr Odinga’s wife, Ida Odinga, who denied claims that the he is sick. Ms Odinga claimed that he took a sabbatical leave from politics.
“As someone who lives with him, I know his health better than anyone. How could someone who doesn’t reside with him claim to know more about his condition than I do? What I’ve shared with you is the truth,” she said.
Led by his spokesperson, Dennis Onyango, Mr Odinga’s team had also maintained that the veteran politician is not indisposed, dismissing the claims as fabrications spread by political adversaries.
While Mr Odinga has always made it public when he is sick, Dr Oginga stated that the ODM leader is not compelled to update the public about his health because he is not the president.
“Raila is not the president whose health status must be well known to the public, including minor illnesses such as this. It was not our intention to share his health status, but after a lot was said about this, we saw it wise to clear the air,” said Dr Oginga.
The Siaya Senator said that his brother will be back in the country soon.
