Oketch Salah has issued a detailed public response explaining his recent actions within the Orange Democratic Movement and restating his loyalty to the party, days after ODM formally distanced itself from his activities.
In a message addressed to ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga, Salah said his involvement has always been driven by a desire to strengthen the party and widen its reach. He maintained that his actions were meant to support, not undermine, ODM and its leadership.
“I believe deeply in this party, in its history, and in what it stands for. If, in that process, I have hurt you, Chairlady Wanga, I sincerely apologise. That was never my intention," Salah said.
Salah also responded to concerns raised over funding, making it clear that he has not used party money or sought financial support from ODM. He said all the resources he has spent came from his own pocket as part of what he views as personal sacrifice for the party.
“The resources I have been using are my own, personal resources. I have not asked ODM for money, and I have not used party funds. This has been my personal contribution to a party I love and respect,” he stated.
He argued that ODM must stay active and closely linked to the people, especially supporters at the grassroots, if it is to remain strong and relevant.
“I honestly believe that ODM needs to be re-energised and refreshed. A living movement must keep moving, keep inspiring and keep reaching the people, especially at the grassroots,” he said.
Salah further tied his commitment to ODM to his relationship with party leader Raila Odinga, saying his loyalty to the party is rooted in a personal promise made to him.
“I promised Baba [Raila Odinga] that I would stand with ODM. I made that promise when we were in India. That promise has stayed with me,” he said.
He described his dedication as grounded in “love, loyalty and obligation to Baba’s legacy,” adding, “This party is part of his life’s work, and by extension, it is part of my own duty to continue supporting it, protecting it and strengthening it.”
Salah said his position within ODM remains unchanged despite the public disagreement, stressing that his support for the party will continue.
“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.”
His response followed a statement by the Orange Democratic Movement distancing itself from his activities and clarifying that they do not reflect official party positions.
In the statement issued by the party’s national chairperson, Gladys Wanga, ODM said it is not linked to Salah’s engagements, noting that any actions he undertakes are “strictly in his personal capacity and do not represent or bind the party.”
The party further said that all official activities, programmes and engagements must be conducted through the party secretariat and with approval from the leadership, which is headed by Oburu Odinga.
“Decisions and actions taken in the party’s name must follow established internal processes,” the statement read.
