The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has formally distanced itself from the actions and statements of Oketch Salah, warning members of the public that he does not represent the party in any capacity.
In a statement signed by ODM National Chairperson H.E. Gladys Wanga, EGH, the party clarified that any activities, remarks, or engagements undertaken by Salah were done strictly in his personal capacity and should not be associated with ODM.
“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 emphasized that all official #ODM programs and engagements must be coordinated through the Party Secretariat and conducted with the approval and guidance of the party leadership, currently headed by Dr. Oburu Odinga.
ODM further cautioned its grassroots officials, members, and supporters against organizing or participating in meetings, forums, or events under the party’s banner without prior consultation and authorization, noting that discipline and coordination are critical as the party advances its political agenda.
The clarification follows a series of remarks and actions by Salah that unsettled both the party leadership and supporters. #Salah had publicly claimed to be a close confidant and “adopted son” of the late Raila Odinga, a claim that was firmly rejected by the Odinga family, who accused him of misrepresenting private interactions for political relevance.
Tensions intensified after Salah alleged that Raila Odinga had issued political instructions in his final days regarding ODM’s future political alignment. Among the claims was that Raila intended to support President William Ruto for a second term in 2027 and preferred ODM to remain within the broad-based government rather than return to the opposition.
Salah also alleged that Raila had warned him about internal “rebels” within ODM, singling out Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna as a “mole” working for rival interests, and suggesting that officials opposed to the alliance with President Ruto should be monitored or removed. He further claimed that Raila wanted his brother, Oburu Oginga, to steer the party toward continued participation in government.
These claims were dismissed by the Odinga family and senior ODM officials as false, misleading, and harmful, with party insiders warning that such statements risk distorting the legacy of the late ODM leader and confusing party supporters.
Additional concern was raised over Salah’s participation in political gatherings not sanctioned by the ODM Secretariat, including events where ODM symbols were displayed alongside imagery associated with President William Ruto. The party stated that such actions violated established protocols and created uncertainty regarding ODM’s official position.
ODM reiterated its commitment to orderly leadership, clear communication, and adherence to party structures, urging members of the public to rely only on official party channels for authentic information.