Businessman Oketch Salah has explained his recent activities linked to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying everything he has done has been driven by love and loyalty to the party.
The explanation came after concerns raised within the party prompted ODM to issue an official clarification stating that any activity carried out by Oketch is strictly personal and does not represent the ODM party in any way.
In a statement addressed to ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga on February 7, 2026, Salah said his actions aimed to promote and strengthen ODM. He explained that he believes deeply in the party’s history, values, and its important role in Kenya’s political journey.
“I want to speak from my heart and very clearly,” Salah said, adding that everything he has been doing has had one main goal, which is to help popularize and strengthen ODM.
According to Salah, his involvement has always been about making a positive contribution and ensuring that ODM remains strong, active, and connected to the people.
Apology to Party Leadership
In his statement, Salah acknowledged that his actions may have caused discomfort within the party leadership, especially to the national chairperson. He offered a direct apology, saying it was never his intention to hurt or offend anyone.
“If, in that process, I have hurt you, Chairlady Wanga, I sincerely apologize. That was never my intention,” he said.
Salah emphasized that his efforts were not meant to challenge or weaken the party’s leadership or structures. Instead, he said his actions were driven by loyalty and belief in ODM.
Also Read: ‘Strictly Personal’: Gladys Wanga Disowns Oketch Salah’s Forums, Warns ODM Officials
Call to Re‑Energize ODM
Salah also said that ODM, like any political movement, needs fresh energy to remain strong and relevant. He explained that political parties must continue to move forward, inspire supporters, and stay close to ordinary citizens.
“A living movement must keep moving, keep inspiring and keep reaching the people, especially at the grassroots,” Salah said.
He added that this belief has guided his actions and that his goal has always been to ensure ODM remains visible, active, and connected across the country.
Clarifying Use of Resources
Salah also addressed questions about funding. He made it clear that all the resources he has been using are his own and maintained that he has never asked ODM for money.
“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,” he said.
Also Read: Ruth Odinga Raises Alarm Over Secret Sponsor Pouring Millions Into ODM
He described this as his personal contribution to a party he loves and respects, stressing that his involvement is not driven by money, personal gain, or political ambition.
Promise to Raila Odinga
A key part of Salah’s statement focused on his loyalty to the late Raila Odinga, whom he referred to as Baba. He said his commitment to ODM comes from a promise he made to Raila Odinga during a visit to India.
“I promised Baba that I would stand with ODM. I made that promise when we were in India. That promise has stayed with me,” he said.
Salah explained that his support for ODM is based on love, loyalty, and a sense of duty to protect Raila Odinga’s political legacy. He described ODM as a major part of Raila Odinga’s life’s work and said supporting the party is a responsibility he takes seriously.
“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,” he said.
Oketch Salah Reaffirms His Identity With ODM
Salah ended his statement by clearly reaffirming his place within the ODM family. He said his commitment to the party is genuine and long‑term, not something done for attention or temporary reasons.
“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,” he said.
Salah noted that his statement was meant to explain his intentions, address concerns raised, and assure party leaders and supporters that he remains loyal and committed to ODM.
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