ODM operative Oketch Salah has broken his silence amid growing internal tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement following the death of party leader Raila Odinga, firmly rejecting allegations surrounding his role during the veteran politician’s final days.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, Salah said he was being unfairly targeted and accused as factions within the party jostle for position after Odinga’s passing.
“I am the one being accused, so I will respond directly and calmly,” Salah said, insisting that he was with Odinga from the time he first fell ill until his final moments.
Salah described emotionally charged moments during Odinga’s illness, claiming there were instances when only he and a single security officer were present as they tried to help the ODM leader through intense pain.
He was quick to clarify that the officer present was not Maurice Ogetta, countering claims circulating on social media.
He further revealed that he held extensive private conversations with Odinga during this period, covering personal, political and strategic matters, but said he would not disclose their contents out of respect for the Odinga family.
“Silence should never be mistaken for fear or falsehood,” he said.
Addressing accusations that he disrespected Odinga’s family or attempted to sideline them, Salah dismissed the claims as “false and malicious,” stressing that he never sought to replace the family or undermine Mama Ida Odinga and her children.
“I did not force myself into anyone’s life. I was present because Baba allowed me to be present—consistently and knowingly,” he said.
Salah also stated that he was open to public scrutiny and ready to be interviewed on any credible platform, saying the truth did not fear examination.
However, he warned against being turned into a scapegoat in what he described as manufactured political battles within the party.
“What I will not accept is being turned into a convenient villain so others can fight internal battles or rewrite lived history,” he said.
His remarks come at a time when ODM is grappling with internal divisions and heightened political manoeuvring following Odinga’s death, with debates intensifying over legacy, succession and control of the party’s future direction.
Salah urged restraint, calling for dignity in handling matters surrounding Odinga’s final days.
“Some things are not for noise, timelines or propaganda. Pain deserves dignity, not spectacle,” he said.
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