The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is taking firm steps to reassert control and unity within its ranks following the death of its longtime party leader, the late Hon. Raila Odinga.
Months after his burial at the Kang’o K’ajaramogi Museum in Bondo, Siaya County, internal divisions have begun to surface, prompting the party leadership to issue a strong clarification.
In a formal statement released through official ODM platforms, the party’s National Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor, Her Excellency Gladys Wanga, publicly distanced ODM from the activities of Mr. Oketch Salah, a figure popularly referred to by some supporters as Raila Odinga’s “adopted son.”
According to the letter, ODM clarified that any activities, statements, or engagements undertaken by Oketch Salah are done strictly in his personal capacity and do not represent, bind, or reflect the Orange Democratic Movement in any way. The party emphasized that Salah holds no mandate to speak or act on behalf of ODM.
Also Read
- EPRA Shocks Kenyans With New Petrol And Diesel Prices, Fares Spikes Expected
- “I Was Always Losing My Phone and Valuables Until I Found Protection That Secured Everything I Own – Youth Shares Experience”
- I Was Always Quarreling With Everyone Around Me Until I Found Peace That Changed My Life, This Is Strategy I Used– Woman Shares Testimony”
- Embu Governor Breaks Silence After Two People Were Killed In Embu Demonstrations
- Karagu Muraya Mourns Brother After Tragic Death Following Road Accident
The statement further noted that all official ODM activities, programs, and engagements must be channeled through the Party Secretariat and carried out under the approval and guidance of the party’s leadership, which is currently headed by Dr. Oburu Odinga.
Governor Wanga warned grassroots leaders, members, and supporters against organizing or participating in activities conducted in the name of ODM without prior consultation and authorization from the party leadership and secretariat. The move appears aimed at curbing the rise of parallel centers of influence within the party.
“The Party remains committed to order, discipline, and structured engagement in the pursuit of its objectives,” the statement read in part.
The decisive move by Wanga signals ODM’s intention to protect its identity and organizational integrity at a time when political realignments and factional interests threaten to destabilize the party’s traditional support base.
As ODM navigates the post-Raila era, party insiders say the coming months will be critical in determining its future direction and cohesion.
About the Author
