ODM Boss Oburu Oginga Returns to Kenya After Brief Dubai Break as Odinga Family Enters Another Period of Mourning.

Nairobi.

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader and Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga returned to the country this afternoon, ending a short retreat in Dubai to join relatives in coordinating funeral arrangements for his late sister, Beryl Achieng Odinga, who died on Tuesday.

The 82-year-old senator departed for the United Arab Emirates on November 21 in what family members described as a much-needed sabbatical to “recollect, recharge, and reset” after weeks of bereavement, political engagements, and family responsibilities. It was his first trip abroad since the death of his younger brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, on October 15.

In a social media update on November 21, Oburu assured supporters that he was in good health and expressed gratitude for the concern shown by well-wishers. His son, Jaoko Oburu Odinga, noted that the family had encouraged the brief break following a packed schedule that included ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa on November 15 and several campaign stops, among them a rally in Kasipul for ODM candidate Boyd Were.

His absence, however, sparked a wave of online speculation, with some users claiming he was unwell. Relatives swiftly dismissed the rumours. Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga clarified that it was a short recreational trip after an intense period. Another son, Elijah Oburu, together with long-time confidant Victor Marende, further affirmed that the senator was in excellent condition and simply taking a deserved rest.

A widely circulated photo from Dubai—showing Oburu relaxed, in sunglasses, and leaning on a walking stick—helped quell the speculation and reassure supporters.

Beryl Achieng’s death marks yet another heavy blow to the Odinga family, coming just weeks after Raila’s passing. Describing the period as a painful “harvesting season” of grief, family members said they had postponed burial arrangements until Oburu’s return. The funeral is expected to take place early next week.

As the family’s senior-most figure and a pivotal leader within ODM, Oburu’s prompt return underscores both his personal sense of responsibility and his continued influence as the party navigates a sensitive transition. Messages of condolence continue to stream in nationwide as the family prepares to bury yet another cherished member.