ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga missed the official handover and dedication ceremony of the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga Mausoleum on Wednesday, October 7, fueling speculations about his health.
The 82-year-old senator was conspicously missing from the ceremony attended by family, friends and politicians, and presided over by President William Ruto at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County, Kenya.
Speaking to the guests gathered, Ida Odinga, the spouse of the late Raila, said that Oburu was unable to attend the occassion because of health reasons.
“Please allow me to convey apologies of my senior brother-in-law, Dr. Oburu Oginga, who is unfortunatelty unable to be here with us today because he is unwell. I know you will continue to pray for him, and soon he will be with us again here,” Ida said, before giving her remarks.
The ODM Secretariat on Tuesday, October 6, addressed speculations about the Siaya Senator’s health, insisting that he is recovering after his recent hospitalisation.
The party said that Oburu was given specific instructions by his doctors with regards to how and when he is supposed to resume duties.
Oburu, the secretariat said, remains alert and he is actively following key political and national developments despite the medical advice.
The ceremony
Meanwhile, the ceremony takes place even as Kenya marks one year since the death of Raila, and it is part of observing ‘Mwezi wa Baba’—a month dedicated to honouring his life, political career, and contributions to the country.
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) constructed the KSh30 million facility, with the National Museums of Kenya expected to take stewardship.
In a solemn speech during the ceremony, President Ruto reiterated that they had gathered to do more than hand over a mausoleum.
“We are here to honour a life, celebrate a legacy, and renew our commitment to the ideals that keep that legacy alive,” President Ruto said. “This mausoleum speaks Baba’s language. It is shaped as a pentagon, with five sides. Among the Luo, five is Abich, the number of unity, togetherness and completion. Five recalls the ODM Pentagon of 2007. Leaders from every corner of Kenya came together behind a common national vision. I was privileged to sit at that table with him. I saw and learnt first-hand how Jakom built bridges between communities and between people.”
He was, however, quick to point out that a building alone cannot contain Raila’s legacy. While a stone can keep Raila’s memory, President Ruto insisted that “only a nation can keep his promises”.
“So today, I have not just come to remember him. I have come to give an account of how his vision still drives us to build a Kenya that is just, equitable and fair to all. Jakom’s lifelong cause can be captured in two words: Equitable transformation. He believed no person and no region should be left behind. Not because of where they live. Not because of their tribe. Not because of how they voted.”
