ODM leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga received a warm reception from fellow lawmakers on Thursday, November 12, as he returned to the Senate after weeks away receiving medical treatment.
The 83-year-old politician was welcomed with a standing ovation, with senators expressing their happiness at seeing him back in the chamber following his prolonged absence.
Senate Speaker Welcomes Oburu Oginga Back After Illness
The Senate Speaker formally welcomed Oburu during the sitting, congratulating him on his recovery and acknowledging the excitement among lawmakers.
“Welcome back, Senator Oburu Oginga and the ODM party leader. We are glad that you have recovered. And as you can already see, the senators are very excited. Welcome back, and wishing you a much quicker recovery,” the Speaker said.
Oburu had been away from parliamentary proceedings while receiving treatment for health complications.
He initially travelled to the United Kingdom for medical attention before returning to Kenya, where he was later admitted to Nairobi West Hospital.
He spent several more weeks receiving treatment before being discharged to continue his recovery at home.
Cherargei Makes Lighthearted Remark as Oburu Returns
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei was among the lawmakers who welcomed the ODM leader back to the House.
In a lighthearted message, Cherargei expressed his hopes for Oburu’s continued recovery while joking about his longevity.
“I know you will live more than 1,000 years on this earth. And we wish you quick recovery and welcome back to the House. We will behave ourselves today because you are around,” Cherargei said.
His remarks added a lighter moment to the emotional reception.
Oburu Oginga Reveals What Kept Him Going During Illness
Although he was not scheduled to speak, Oburu briefly addressed senators following his return.
The Siaya senator said his experience in hospital had given him time to reflect on life and the possibility that he might not return to the chamber.
“When I was sick, I thought I was going to leave early before I expressed some of my feelings,” he said.
He indicated that he would request more time during a future sitting to share his thoughts with fellow lawmakers.
Oburu also spoke about the determination that sustained him throughout his illness, saying he remained convinced that he would recover and continue serving his political mission.
“I had the spirit when I was lying there that I will not die, and I’ll not die before I finish my mission. That is why I’m up. If you have the spirit of death, you’ll just die, but my spirit is to live and to live with you people and continue to be friends,” he said.
Oburu Praises Political Friendship Across Party Lines
The ODM leader also used his address to highlight the importance of maintaining personal relationships despite political disagreements.
He singled out Democracy for the Citizens (DCP) party Secretary General and Senator Methu for visiting him during his illness.
Oburu said Methu had kept in touch and checked on his condition despite the political differences between their respective camps.
“He came to visit me when I was sick. He calls me when I’m sick, and people think that we are enemies because of what we say and the statements we make out there,” Oburu said.
He argued that political differences should not prevent politicians from maintaining personal friendships.
“You don’t destroy friendship because you are different politically. Because tomorrow you will be together,” he added.
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