This archive report was first published on 13 July 2020.
ODM leader Raila Odinga has been out of the country for two weeks, sparking speculation about his health and whereabouts. According to reports, he was expected back home on Wednesday, but some sources claim he may have arrived secretly last night from Dubai.
On Sunday, ODM Chair John Mbadi stated that Raila's recovery was going well, but it was unclear when he would return to the country. 'He might not come back today as reported but any day next week,' Mbadi said.
Multiple accounts had emerged on what the AU special envoy for infrastructure was admitted in hospital for, with close relatives giving conflicting accounts. Dr. Oburu Oginga stated that Raila left the country for a successful back surgery, while his wife, Ida Odinga, discounted the account, sparking speculations on what could be ailing the former Prime Minister.
Ida Odinga refuted the earlier claims, stating that Raila was in the United Arab Emirates – Dubai-based International Hospital, where he had been successfully treated for a mild nerve disorder affecting one leg.
Ida urged people to treat such rumors with utmost contempt and abhorrence, stating that it was not right to speculate on someone's health.
