The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has called on Kenyans to respect the privacy of individuals, particularly when it comes to health matters.
The Nairobi Senator was cautioning Kenyans against the growing trend of spreading unverified information online.
Speaking outside Parliament Buildings, the ODM legislator reminded Kenyans that matters of health should be treated with courtesy and discretion, especially when it touches on public figures.
“It’s important that we respect the privacy of every individual when it comes to their health,” Sifuna said. “Whenever Mzee (Raila Odinga) has faced any health challenge, he has been open about it — either personally or through his spokesperson.”
Sifuna maintained that ODM leader Raila Odinga is doing well and continues to communicate with the public through official channels.
Sifuna went ahead to condemn individuals who are busy spreading false reports about baba’s health—insisting that such rumours were unnecessary,disrespectful and in bad taste.
“There’s no need to peddle lies or incite fear,” he noted. “Let’s be decent enough to let leaders enjoy their right to privacy. Health issues should not become social media gossip.”
Osotsi: Raila Still Active and Engaged
Sifunas sentiments were echoed by ODM Deputy Party Leader and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, who dismissed the rumours doing rounds social platforms.
“Our party leader, Hon. Raila Odinga, is fine. I spoke to him this morning — he was at the gym. Can a sick person go to the gym? Let them stop spreading lies and leave ODM alone,” Osotsi affirmed.
He added that there is no leadership vacuum within the ODM Party, stressing that the movement remains united and focused on national issues.
ODM Urges Kenyans to Focus on Real Issues
The statements come amid ongoing social media chatter over Raila’s reduced public appearances. ODM officials have insisted the speculation is unfounded and that Raila remains actively involved in political and party affairs.
Sifuna further urged Kenyans to shift their focus from rumours to meaningful national conversations. He advised that there were a lot that should get Kenyans’ attention, if not engaging in rumour mongering.
“Speculating about someone’s health doesn’t help anyone,” he said. “Let’s channel our energy toward the economy, governance, andpublic welfare, instead of rumour mongering. Respecting one’s private life is a key part of responsible citizenship.”
