ODM Distances Itself from Oketch Salah’s Activities, Warns Against Unauthorized Use of Party Platform

Party leadership emphasizes all official engagements must go through proper channels

NAIROBI, Kenya – The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has issued a formal statement distancing itself from recent activities and pronouncements by Mr. Oketch Salah, declaring that his actions were undertaken in a personal capacity and do not represent the party’s official position.

In a statement signed by National Chairperson H.E. Gladys Wanga, EGH, the party emphasized that all official ODM programs and engagements must be channeled through the Party Secretariat and conducted with the approval and guidance of the party leadership, headed by Dr. Oburu Odinga.

“The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) wishes to clarify that any activities, statements, or engagements undertaken by Mr. Oketch Salah are carried out strictly in his personal capacity and do not represent or bind the Orange Democratic Movement in any way,” the statement read.

The party further cautioned its grassroots officials, members, and supporters against organizing or participating in events under the ODM banner without prior consultation and approval from the leadership. ODM stressed the importance of maintaining organizational discipline and a coordinated approach in pursuit of its political objectives.

Controversial Claims Spark Leadership Concerns

The clarification comes in response to a series of controversial statements and actions by Salah that reportedly unsettled party leadership and supporters. Salah had publicly identified himself as a close confidant and “adopted son” of the late Raila Odinga, claims that were firmly rejected by the Odinga family, who accused him of misrepresenting private interactions for political gain.

Tensions intensified following Salah’s assertions that Raila Odinga had issued political directives during his final days regarding ODM’s future direction. Among these alleged instructions was an endorsement of President William Ruto for a second term in 2027, which Salah claimed would be more effective if ODM remained united and strong.

Salah further alleged that the late leader wished for the party to maintain its position within President Ruto’s broad-based government rather than return to opposition. He also claimed that Raila had warned about internal “rebels” within ODM, specifically naming Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna as a “mole” working for rival interests, and allegedly urged the party to monitor or remove officials opposed to the alliance with the current administration.

Additionally, Salah asserted that Raila had indicated his brother, Oburu Oginga, should guide the party toward continued government participation.

These claims have been dismissed by the Odinga family and senior party figures as false and misleading. ODM insiders have expressed concern that such statements could distort the legacy of the late party leader and create confusion among party supporters.

Unauthorized Political Gatherings Raise Red Flags

Additional concerns have emerged regarding Salah’s involvement in political gatherings not sanctioned by the ODM Secretariat. Some of these events reportedly featured ODM symbols displayed alongside imagery associated with President William Ruto.

The party stated that such actions contravene established protocols and create ambiguity about ODM’s official stance on key political matters.

The statement from the party leadership underscores ODM’s commitment to maintaining internal coherence and preventing unauthorized individuals from speaking on behalf of the organization as it navigates the current political landscape.