The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretariat has issued an official statement addressing the recent wave of misinformation surrounding the health of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga. The statement, signed by Raila’s spokesperson Dennis Onyango on October 5, 2025, strongly dismissed claims circulated by political rivals suggesting that Raila is unwell or hospitalized abroad.
According to the press release, the misinformation campaign is allegedly being driven by a coalition of political figures aligned with the impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and Eugene Wamalwa, among others. ODM accused the group of orchestrating a propaganda campaign aimed at discrediting Raila Odinga’s political influence both locally and internationally.
ODM Calls Out “Misinformation Squad” Targeting Raila Odinga
In the detailed statement, Onyango claimed that Gachagua, Kalonzo, and Wamalwa’s team has been spreading fake news using manipulated images and AI-generated content, which certain traditional media outlets have allegedly picked up without verification. The ODM Secretariat noted that these outlets have been presenting the falsified content as “Breaking News,” further misleading the public.
“The misinformation is broadcast by the same team that went on a frenzy against Hon. Raila’s bid for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission earlier this year,” the statement read.
According to ODM, this is not the first time Raila’s opponents have used misinformation as a political weapon. The party described the current campaign as a continuation of the same strategy that was deployed earlier in 2025 to derail Raila’s AU Commission candidacy.
ODM: “The Goal is to Bully Raila into Supporting Their Political Agenda”
The press release alleges that the intention behind these false reports is to pressure Raila Odinga into backing anti-government forces aligned against President William Ruto. ODM’s statement says Raila is being bullied by rivals who want him to provide political leverage in their ongoing struggles.
“The hope of this team then and now is to bully Hon. Raila to provide a back for them to ride on in their struggle against President William Ruto,” Onyango stated.
ODM emphasized that such political maneuvers are not new to Raila’s career. The party described him as a seasoned political figure who has faced and overcome similar smear campaigns over the years.
Raila Odinga’s Health: ODM Clarifies the Facts
Addressing the rumors head-on, ODM outlined key facts about Raila Odinga’s health and travel schedule:
- Raila is healthy and active.
The statement affirmed that Raila remains in good health and continues to engage in both local and international activities as part of his political and social commitments. - No hospitalization or illness.
ODM categorically denied claims that Raila is hospitalized or undergoing treatment abroad. - Regular travels are part of his schedule.
Onyango clarified that Raila traveled out of the country on Friday evening, describing it as one of the many international trips he has made this year — emphasizing that it was “definitely not the last.” - Transparency on past health matters.
ODM reminded Kenyans that Raila has always been transparent about his health. For instance, he publicly disclosed his hospitalization in 2010 while serving as Prime Minister and again in 2021 when he contracted COVID-19.
“He would do the same today were he to be in the health situation his opponents wish,” the statement said.
ODM Denies Reports of Raila Traveling to Europe for Treatment
ODM also dismissed reports circulating on social media and blogs claiming that Raila had traveled to Europe for medical treatment. The party clarified that the reports were false and purely speculative.
“He definitely did not travel to Europe as picked from bloggers and broadcast by some media houses,” Onyango stated, adding that the falsehoods were being amplified by frustrated political opponents.
The Secretariat reaffirmed that Raila’s travels are routine and part of his international engagements, which often include meetings with global leaders, development partners, and diaspora communities.
A History of Transparency: Raila’s Record on Health Disclosure
The ODM statement highlighted Raila’s history of openness regarding his health. In June 2010, while serving as Prime Minister, Raila publicly announced that he was undergoing a minor surgical procedure. Similarly, in March 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Raila disclosed his positive diagnosis and subsequent hospitalization.
By sharing such personal health information publicly, ODM argued, Raila demonstrated a commitment to transparency that few leaders match. The Secretariat emphasized that if Raila were unwell today, he would not hesitate to inform the nation.
Political Context: Why Raila Odinga’s Health Is Being Weaponized
Political analysts view the misinformation campaign as part of a broader strategy by Raila’s opponents to weaken his credibility as a national and continental figure. Since his AU Commission Chairmanship bid earlier in 2025, Raila has remained a central figure in Kenya’s political discourse, often consulted on matters of governance, diplomacy, and unity.
The statement suggested that Raila’s political influence continues to unsettle his rivals, many of whom see him as a potential kingmaker in the next election cycle. The misinformation about his health, ODM claimed, is designed to create doubt about his ability to lead and to divide his support base.
Home or Abroad: Raila Remains Committed to the Nation
In the concluding section of the press release, ODM reaffirmed Raila’s unwavering dedication to the principles of good governance and national unity.
“Home or away, Hon. Raila remains committed to the ideals of the Broad Based Government,” the statement read.
Raila, according to ODM, remains steadfast in his belief that addressing the country’s challenges requires collaboration and compromise across political lines. The statement reiterated his focus on strengthening Kenya’s democracy and promoting socio-economic empowerment.
Public Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Following the ODM statement, social media platforms were flooded with reactions. Supporters of Raila Odinga expressed relief and appreciation for the clarification, with many calling out bloggers and media outlets that had shared unverified reports.
Hashtags such as #RailaStrong, #ODMStatement, and #FakeNewsAlert began trending on X (formerly Twitter), as Kenyans debated the implications of the misinformation and the political motives behind it.
Political commentators also weighed in, emphasizing the need for responsible journalism and cautioning against the spread of AI-generated fake news, which has become an increasing problem in Kenyan politics.
The Rise of AI Misinformation in Kenyan Politics
ODM’s statement specifically mentioned the use of AI-generated images to create false narratives about Raila’s condition. Experts warn that artificial intelligence has made it easier for malicious actors to create convincing but fake visuals and videos that can quickly go viral on social media.
The Communication Authority of Kenya (CAK) has in recent months cautioned citizens against consuming and sharing unverified content, especially during politically charged moments. Analysts suggest that the Raila Odinga incident highlights the urgent need for digital literacy and fact-checking initiatives to curb the spread of fake news.
Raila’s Legacy and Continued Relevance
At 80 years old, Raila Odinga remains one of Kenya’s most influential and respected political figures. His decades-long struggle for democracy, multiparty governance, and human rights has cemented his place in Kenya’s history.
Despite repeated misinformation campaigns, Raila continues to draw massive support both locally and across Africa. His leadership in promoting regional integration, peace efforts, and socio-economic reform keeps him at the center of major political conversations.
ODM’s latest statement is not only a rebuttal to fake news but also a reaffirmation of Raila’s continued vitality and relevance in shaping Kenya’s political future.
Conclusion: ODM’s Firm Stand on Truth and Transparency
The ODM Secretariat’s statement on October 5, 2025, serves as a stern reminder of the dangers of misinformation and the need for responsible reporting. It reinforces Raila Odinga’s commitment to openness, his unwavering belief in democratic values, and his enduring influence in Kenyan politics.
As ODM aptly concluded:
“We understand his opponents’ frustration with this.”
The clarification from ODM effectively shuts down speculation and puts to rest rumors about Raila’s health, while also shining a light on the growing menace of AI-driven political misinformation in Kenya.
