Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga resumed Senate proceedings after weeks of illness.
The Siaya senator resumed chamber duties after weeks of treatment and urged leaders to protect friendships despite political differences.
Oburu Oginga returns to the Senate after weeks of illness, with fellow lawmakers giving him a standing ovation on Thursday. The Siaya senator and ODM leader received treatment in Kenya and the United Kingdom during his absence.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi welcomed the 83-year-old politician back to the chamber and expressed relief at his recovery. He also wished him continued improvement as senators celebrated his return to parliamentary proceedings.
Addressing the House, Oburu said his illness had prompted reflection on his life and unfinished mission. He remained determined to recover, even when his condition became serious.
Oburu Oginga returns with appeal for political friendship
Oburu said he wanted another opportunity to address the Senate at greater length about his reflections. He also thanked Nyandarua Senator John Methu for visiting and calling him during his illness.
Methu serves as secretary-general of the Democracy for the Citizens Party, despite their different political affiliations. Oburu said their relationship showed that public disagreements need not turn politicians into personal enemies.
The ODM leader urged colleagues to preserve friendships rather than allow political competition to break them. Political differences, he argued, should not prevent leaders from treating each other with respect.
He further called on Kenyans to remain united regardless of who wins the 2027 General Election. Oburu urged leaders to support fair competition and democracy while placing national interests above individual ambitions.
His appeal comes as ODM navigates political realignments and internal debate ahead of the election. Oburu assumed the party leadership after his younger brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, died in October 2025.
Treatment and recovery before Senate comeback
Oburu entered Nairobi Hospital on October 2 and left on October 19 after receiving treatment. He also sought medical care in the United Kingdom during his illness.
Although he stayed away from the chamber, he continued engaging in political affairs from his residence. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula told Parliament that Oburu was also carrying out parliamentary responsibilities remotely while recovering at home.
On November 4, Wetang’ula and Kingi led lawmakers to Oburu’s Nairobi residence to check on his recovery. During that visit, the senator reassured the delegation that his health was improving.
He also expressed eagerness to resume debate in the chamber and return to active political engagements. Thursday’s appearance marked his first return to Senate proceedings after the prolonged illness.
