Oburu Odinga expresses surprise at not being properly invited to State House event
ODM Party Leader Oburu Odinga caused a moment of laughter during a State House function on human rights after revealing that he was not properly prepared for the event due to what he described as a lack of formal invitation.
Speaking during the meeting on Monday, June 15, 2026, attended by senior government officials, political leaders, and human rights stakeholders, Oburu said the communication around the event had been unclear, adding that the lack of clear communication left him unprepared for the event.
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“First of all, Your Excellency, I would like to say that I was not properly prepared for this occasion. This is because I don’t know why I was not properly invited to the occasion, but I don’t want to complain,” he said.
His remarks drew light laughter from sections of the audience, briefly easing the formal atmosphere of the high-level meeting.
Oburu ties it to Raila Odinga’s absence.
Oburu went on to suggest that the absence of his late brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, may have played a role in the situation, noting Raila’s long-standing reputation as a key figure in Kenya’s human rights and democracy struggles.
“I think it is because my brother is not there. If he were there, I’m very sure he would have been the first to be invited to this occasion because he held human rights very dearly to his heart, and he fought for them. He fought for it for most of his life and was dedicated to fighting for human rights and the liberation of our country,” he stated.
Despite the humorous moment, the ODM leader maintained a serious tone as he used the platform to advocate for reforms in the management of public demonstrations in Kenya.
He proposed that protesters should only be required to issue prior notice rather than apply for permits, arguing that this would better protect constitutional freedoms while maintaining public order.
“Just notice, do not apply for a permit. You give them notice, and they provide you with security, and you state exactly where you want to demonstrate, from what time to what time, so that security can be provided for you,” he said.
Oburu added that such a system would ensure peaceful demonstrations while reducing friction between citizens and law enforcement agencies.
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William Muthama
William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]
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