Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has set aside political differences with ODM to praise party leader Oburu Oginga, describing him as one of the calmest, humblest and kindest politicians he has encountered.
Salasya, who does not support the Orange Democratic Movement, said his political disagreements with Oburu had not prevented him from appreciating the veteran politician’s character away from the political arena.
The MP's remarks came as Oburu continues to recover at his Nairobi home after recently visiting hospital for what he described as a general medical check-up.
Oburu moved to reassure Kenyans after reports circulated claiming that he had been seriously unwell and was being considered for specialised treatment abroad.
The ODM leader dismissed the reports, saying he had only briefly visited hospital and had since been discharged.
“I love Party leader Oburu, even though I don’t support ODM,” Salasya said, stressing that political differences should not prevent people from recognising positive qualities in their opponents.
“Politics should never make us blind to the character of the people we meet and interact with,” he added.
Salasya recalled an incident involving Oburu that left a lasting impression on him. He said he was travelling to attend the funeral of former Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla when he arrived late for his flight.
According to Salasya, Oburu offered him an alternative means of travelling, inviting him to accompany him on his private jet.
“I remember the first time I ever used a private jet. I was late for my flight while travelling to attend General Ogolla’s funeral. Oburu simply told me, ‘You will go with me,’” Salasya recalled.
He said the journey did not end with the private jet, adding that after landing in Kisumu, he also travelled by helicopter with the ODM leader.
For Salasya, the experience demonstrated that political competition does not necessarily have to destroy personal relationships or mutual respect among leaders.
“That experience taught me something important: you can disagree with someone politically and still respect them as a human being,” he said.
The Mumias East legislator maintained that although he does not agree with ODM or everything Oburu represents politically, he would continue to acknowledge the qualities he had personally witnessed.
“I may not agree with ODM or everything Oburu represents politically, but I will always acknowledge a good heart, humility and kindness when I experience them,” Salasya said.
Salasya concluded his message by separating political disagreements from personal character, saying political positions are temporary while the manner in which people treat others leaves a lasting impression.
“Politics is temporary. Character is what remains,” he said before wishing Oburu a quick recovery.
Oburu's health has attracted public attention as he continues to lead ODM following the death of his younger brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, in October 2025.
His latest reassurance is expected to ease concerns among party supporters and the wider political community.