ODM Deputy Party Leader and Vihiga County Senator Godfrey Osotsi has strongly criticised party member Oketch Salah for producing merchandise that mixes ODM’s orange colours with President William Ruto’s image.

Speaking during a public address in Shamakhokho on Saturday, February 7, 2026, Osotsi accused some individuals within ODM of attempting to sabotage the party by pushing for a hasty coalition agreement with UDA.

“This ODM of ours, thieves have entered inside. They are saying that we should go and sign an agreement with UDA. Do you want UDA? Do you want UDA?” Osotsi asked the crowd, which responded with a resounding “No.”

The Senator emphasised that ODM should first ensure implementation of the 10-point agenda left by the late Raila Odinga before discussing any coalition agreements.

“We are saying that the 10-point agenda that Mzee Raila left behind, which talks about 10 issues, should be implemented first before we talk about matters of agreements. Because we still have one and a half years, what’s the hurry? Why do they want a quick marriage? And we know they want a quick marriage so they can destroy the ODM party from inside,” Osotsi stated.

Condemnation of mixed branding

Osotsi reserved his strongest criticism for the recent comrades’ meeting at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), where ODM colours were displayed alongside President Ruto’s image, in an event by Oketch Salah.

“You saw another mkora walking around, he has produced orange t-shirts, and then the picture he has put in the middle, he has put Ruto’s picture,” he said.

He warned UDA leaders to respect ODM as an independent political party despite their control of the government.

“We are saying UDA party, you are leading the government, but respect the ODM party. Don’t mix orange with those other things of UDA,” he added.

Reclaiming ODM

Osotsi announced plans to mobilise ODM leaders who stand for the party’s principles.

He said that the drive led by the leaders will aim at protecting and reclaiming the party from internal sabotage.

“We want to stand firm, and I will bring Edwin Sifuna. I will bring Babu Owino. I will bring James Orengo. I will bring Caleb Amisi. I will bring ODM party leaders, those who stand for the truth. Tomorrow we start the journey. Tomorrow we start the journey to rescue the ODM party in Busia,” he stated.