Raila Odinga is Well and Happy, Says ODM Director Philip Etale
ODM Director Philip Etale has assured Kenyans that Raila Odinga is in good health, dismissing ongoing rumours about the opposition leader’s condition.
Raila Dismisses Health Rumours
Speaking on Tuesday afternoon, Etale said he had spoken directly with the ODM leader, who personally rubbished the claims circulating online about his health.
“I have just spoken with Raila Odinga, just under five minutes ago. He is jovial and happy,” Etale said.
According to the ODM Communications Director, Raila described the online speculation as propaganda and encouraged Kenyans to ignore the false reports.
“I am seeing people spreading so much propaganda online; let’s keep praying for them,” Raila was quoted as saying.
ODM Clarifies Raila’s Trip Abroad
The former Prime Minister’s absence from public events in recent weeks had sparked speculation about his health. However, ODM officials clarified that Raila was out of the country for personal matters unrelated to illness.
In a statement issued on Sunday, October 5, the party dismissed reports that Odinga had travelled abroad for treatment, terming them false and politically motivated.
“Honourable Raila travelled out of the country on Friday evening, one of many trips he has made this year and definitely not the last,” the party stated.
“He definitely did not travel to Europe as reported by bloggers and some of the broadcast media. He is not indisposed as prayed for by his frustrated opponents,” the statement read.
Raila Expected Back Soon
Etale confirmed that Raila is still abroad but will return to Kenya in a few days. The reassurance comes after the ODM party postponed its 20th Anniversary celebrations, initially planned for October 3 in Mombasa — a move that had fueled speculation about Odinga’s whereabouts.
Party members have urged Kenyans to disregard misinformation and await Odinga’s return.