Kindiki Urges Respect for Odinga's Health

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Monday, October 13, 2025, condemned opposition leaders for what he termed "cheap politics" regarding the health of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga. Speaking in Alego Usonga, Siaya County, Kindiki asserted that Odinga is "safe and healthy" and criticised those wishing him ill as acting against African tradition.

Kindiki revealed he had personally spoken with Odinga, in the presence of Siaya Governor James Orengo and Senator Oburu Oginga, confirming Odinga's good spirits and imminent return to Kenya. Royal Media Services Chairman S.K. Macharia echoed these sentiments, stating he had also communicated with Odinga and confirmed his excellent health.

Context of Speculation and Opposition Reactions

The Deputy President's statements follow weeks of intense social media speculation and conflicting reports concerning Odinga's health and whereabouts. The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) had earlier, on Sunday, October 5, 2025, dismissed claims of Odinga's hospitalisation or illness as politically motivated falsehoods. The party accused a faction of the opposition, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and DAP-K's Eugene Wamalwa, of orchestrating a misinformation campaign.

Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, Odinga's elder brother, had on Saturday, October 11, 2025, clarified that Raila was indeed unwell but was recuperating in India after a check-up. This statement followed earlier denials by Odinga's wife, Ida Odinga, and his spokesperson, Dennis Onyango, who maintained that Odinga was on a routine foreign trip and not indisposed.

Political Implications and Calls for Decorum

The politicisation of Odinga's health has highlighted deep divisions within the Kenyan political landscape, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections. Critics, including former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Kipruto Arap Kirwa, have urged political parties to avoid using health matters for political gain, emphasising the need for privacy and dignity.

Kindiki, during his address, also reaffirmed the government's commitment to equitable development across all regions, irrespective of political affiliations, and underscored support for President William Ruto's collaboration with Odinga in promoting national unity.

Evidence/Data Box

• October 5, 2025: ODM releases a statement refuting claims of Raila Odinga's ill health, attributing rumours to political adversaries.
• October 11, 2025: Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga confirms Raila Odinga is recuperating in India after a brief illness.
• October 13, 2025: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki states Raila Odinga is "safe and healthy" and condemns the politicisation of his health.

Unanswered Questions and Next Steps

While government and Odinga's allies have assured Kenyans of his well-being, specific details regarding the nature of his illness and the exact timeline of his return remain largely undisclosed. The ongoing political exchanges underscore the challenges of maintaining decorum in public discourse, particularly concerning the health of prominent national figures.

What to Watch

Kenyans will be keenly watching for Raila Odinga's return and his subsequent public appearances, which are expected to either quell or reignite further political debate. The trajectory of political alliances and rivalries in the lead-up to the 2027 elections will likely continue to be influenced by such developments.