ODM disowns Oketch Salah's activities as he pledges loyalty to party

In a statement signed by National Chairperson Gladys Wanga, ODM made it clear that Salah's actions do not represent the party's official position.

"The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) wishes to clarify that any activities, statements, or engagements undertaken by Mr Oketch Salah are carried out strictly in his personal capacity and do not represent or bind the Orange Democratic Movement in any way," Wanga stated.

The party emphasised that all official ODM activities must go through proper channels. "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," she said.

Wanga further warned party members against unauthorised activities. "Grassroots leaders, members, and supporters are therefore advised that no activities should be organised or conducted in the name of ODM without prior consultation and approval from the Party leadership and the Secretariat," she added, noting that "The Party remains committed to order, discipline, and structured engagement in the pursuit of its objectives."

However, in what appears to be a direct response, Salah released his own statement addressing Wanga and reaffirming his commitment to ODM. "I want to speak from my heart and very clearly," Salah began. "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."

Acknowledging the tension, he offered an olive branch to the party chairperson. "If, in that process, I have hurt you, Chairlady Wanga, I sincerely apologize. That was never my intention," Salah said.

Despite the apology, Salah defended his vision for the party's future. "But I also 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 stated.

Addressing potential concerns about funding that may have prompted the party's response, Salah was emphatic about his financial independence.

"Let me also be clear: 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 declared.

Salah revealed a personal commitment that drives his loyalty. "Most importantly, my commitment to ODM is not for show. 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 disclosed, referring to the late ODM party leader Raila Odinga.

Salah explained his deeper motivations: "I stand with ODM because of love, loyalty, and obligation to Baba's legacy. 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."

In his concluding remarks, Salah remained defiant despite the party's stand. "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 declared.

The public exchange highlights growing tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement over party activities and the direction of grassroots engagement.

While the party leadership under Wanga insists on structured, approved activities through official channels, Salah maintains his right to support the party independently, using what he describes as his personal resources in a personal capacity.