Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party Leader Oburu Oginga is in the United Kingdom for a routine medical checkup and rest, saying the party’s leadership structures will continue running its affairs during his absence.
In a statement issued by his office, Oburu said he travelled to the UK on the advice of his doctors and the ODM leadership for a comprehensive medical evaluation.
“I am currently in the United Kingdom (UK) to undergo a thorough, routine medical checkup,” Oburu said.
He said the visit would also allow him to rest and rejuvenate, describing his temporary step back from party duties as an opportunity for ODM to demonstrate the strength of its institutions and leadership structures.
“As I attend to these personal health routine checks, that naturally come with advancing years, I view taking this step back as a deliberate, strategic moment for our movement,” he said.
Oburu said ODM was at a point of transition and that its internal systems needed to demonstrate their ability to keep the party’s affairs running smoothly.
“This is a time of transition, where the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is being tested on its readiness and preparedness on institutionalism,” he said.
ODM leadership to maintain party operations
Oburu said ODM has internal mechanisms and systems capable of handling the party’s day-to-day activities while he is away.
“Our party possesses the internal mechanisms, the democratic maturity, and the systems to handle day to day activities seamlessly,” he said.
He named ODM Deputy Party Leaders Paul Simba Arati, the governor of Kisii County, and Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, the governor of Mombasa County, as senior party officials who would work alongside the National Central Committee and the secretariat.
“The party has able stewards, of our Deputy Party Leaders, H.E. Paul Simba Arati (Governor, Kisii County) and H.E. Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir (Governor, Mombasa County) working hand in hand with our highly capable National Central Committee and secretariat,” Oburu said.
He expressed confidence in their ability, together with the wider party leadership, to guide ODM during his absence.
“As an elder who has walked this long journey with you, I have absolute faith in their collective leadership, discipline, and vision to steer our movement effectively,” he said.
Oburu urges ODM members to remain united
The ODM leader also called on party members, officials and supporters to cooperate with the leadership and maintain unity.
“I urge all party members, officials, and the millions of Kenyans who look to us for leadership to accord them the utmost cooperation, stay unified, and remain focused on our shared national goals,” Oburu said.
He urged members to remain focused on what he described as the party’s shared national objectives.
Oburu thanked ODM members, supporters and Kenyans for their continued goodwill and support.
“Thank you for your continued prayers, goodwill, and unwavering support,” he said.
