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Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has dismissed as false and misleading a viral social media post alleging foul play in the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, warning Kenyans against the spread of dangerous misinformation.
In a statement issued on Friday, June 12, the DCI flagged claims that a doctor in India had been offered KSh300 million to poison the veteran opposition leader. The agency categorically termed the allegations as fabricated, noting that the viral post originated from unofficial blogs quoting an obscure digital publication whose article has since been deleted.
The sensational claims sparked widespread online debate, with some Kenyans demanding swift arrests of those behind the misinformation, while others questioned why authorities deemed the matter significant enough to address publicly.
According to verified reports, Raila Odinga died after suffering a cardiac arrest during a routine morning walk at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre in India.
His longtime bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta, who was present at the time, recounted the final moments, stating that the ODM leader abruptly stopped mid-walk, uttered a single word, and collapsed.
The Odinga family, including his elder brother Oburu Oginga, has repeatedly appealed to the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims suggesting foul play, emphasizing respect for the late leader’s legacy.
Despite the official explanation, calls for further scrutiny have emerged from political quarters. Siaya Governor James Orengo and DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua have both called for a private inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Odinga’s death.
The DCI, however, maintains that there is no evidence supporting conspiracy theories circulating online and urged citizens to rely on credible sources of information.
The incident highlights growing concerns over the rapid spread of fake news in Kenya’s digital space, particularly around high-profile figures. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on individuals and platforms responsible for disseminating false information that may cause public panic or unrest.
As the nation continues to mourn one of its most influential political figures, leaders and investigators alike are calling for calm, truth, and respect in honoring the legacy of Raila Odinga.
