NAIROBI — Karen Hospital has dismissed claims that Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga was admitted to the facility hours after the death of his younger brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The hospital’s director, Dr Dan Gikonyo, told the media that the rumours circulating widely on social media were false. “This is just to confirm to you that Hon Oburu is not in Karen Hospital,” Dr Gikonyo said on Wednesday.

His statement came after distressing online reports alleged that the Senator had been rushed to the hospital in a state of shock following news of Raila’s death in India. The claims spread rapidly, prompting confusion and concern among Kenyans already mourning the veteran opposition leader.

Hospital Denies Admission Reports

According to Dr Gikonyo, the hospital has no record of Oburu being admitted or treated on October 15 — the same day Raila passed away. “There has been a lot of misinformation today,” he added, urging the public to verify health-related claims before sharing them online.

Images and video clips circulating from Raila’s Karen residence later showed Oburu among family members receiving guests and supporters. The Senator appeared visibly shaken but not unwell, contrary to the rumours.

A Day of National Grief

Raila Odinga, who served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, died on the morning of October 15 after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk in India. He was pronounced dead at 9:52 a.m. Indian time, according to hospital officials in New Delhi.

Back home, the Odinga residence in Karen became a centre of mourning as relatives, political allies, and supporters gathered to pay their respects. Mama Ida Odinga, Raila’s widow, was seen addressing mourners briefly before becoming overwhelmed by emotion.

Repatriation Underway

A government delegation of more than 30 leaders, led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, has departed for India to oversee the repatriation of Raila’s body. The mission follows coordination between the Kenyan and Indian governments, President William Ruto confirmed.

The body is expected to arrive in Nairobi by Thursday morning, ahead of a planned procession to Bondo, Siaya County, on Friday, where thousands are expected to gather for national prayers and tribute.

As the nation mourns one of its most enduring political figures, officials have urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information, especially concerning the Odinga family’s health and private affairs.