Oketch Salah breaks silence after ODM disowned him
By Faith Lagat, February 7, 2026Prominent Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) supporter, Oketch Salah, has broken his silence following a public rift with the party, issuing a lengthy statement reaffirming his loyalty while apologising to National Chairperson Gladys Wanga for any distress caused by his recent actions.
In a statement posted on his X account on Saturday, the self-proclaimed late Raila Odinga’s adopted son said his activities had been motivated solely by a desire to strengthen and popularise ODM at the grassroots.
The statement came barely 24 hours after the party formally distanced itself from an event he organised at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Friday, February 6.
“Everything I have been doing has only one purpose: to popularize and strengthen ODM. I believe deeply in this party, in its history, and in what it stands for,” Salah wrote.
“If, in that process, I have hurt you, Chairlady Wanga, I sincerely apologize. That was never my intention,” he added.
ODM clarifies position on Salah’s activities
Earlier on Saturday, ODM issued an official clarification through its verified X account, emphasising that Salah’s actions were undertaken strictly in his personal capacity and do not represent the party’s position.
The statement, signed by Wanga, underscored that all official ODM activities must be sanctioned through the party secretariat.
“All official ODM activities, programs, and engagements are channelled through the Party Secretariat and are undertaken with the approval and guidance of the Party leadership, headed by Dr Oburu Odinga,” the statement read.
The party further cautioned grassroots leaders and supporters against organising events in the name of ODM without prior approval, noting the need to safeguard party discipline and coherence.
Controversy sparked by ODM-branded merchandise
The controversy erupted after images from Friday’s KICC event circulated online, showing participants wearing orange ODM-branded caps and T-shirts printed with President William Ruto’s portrait.
The imagery sparked backlash from sections of ODM supporters, who questioned the appropriateness of the merchandise.
Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi publicly raised concerns, asking when the National Delegates Convention had approved such branding and directing his query to Dr Oburu Odinga.
In his response, Salah clarified that he had personally funded all activities associated with the event and had not sought or used ODM resources.
He also referenced a personal commitment made to party leader Raila Odinga during a trip to India, stating: “I promised Baba that I would stand with ODM… I stand with ODM because of love, loyalty and obligation to Baba’s legacy.”
Despite the public rebuke, Salah concluded his statement by reaffirming his allegiance to the party, saying: “I remain ODM. I believe in ODM. And I will continue to stand with ODM out of love for the party and out of respect for Baba.”