Businessman Oketch Salah has strongly responded to remarks made by Ruth Odinga, who publicly disowned him and distanced both the Odinga family and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) from his political activities.In a fiery rebuttal, Salah termed the comments as “misguided and unnecessary,” insisting that his political engagements are independent and driven by his personal convictions and grassroots support.
“I do not require validation from any political family or party to serve the people,” Salah stated. “My engagement with wananchi is based on development, empowerment, and accountability—not political patronage.”
Ruth Odinga had earlier clarified that Salah’s political mobilization efforts should not be associated with her, the Odinga family, or ODM structures. The remarks sparked debate across political circles in Nyanza, with supporters on both sides weighing in.
Salah, however, maintained that Kenya’s democratic space allows any citizen to participate in leadership and public discourse without intimidation or political gatekeeping.
“Leadership is not a monopoly of a few. It belongs to the people,” he added.The exchange has ignited fresh discussions within the region’s political landscape, with observers terming it a sign of shifting alliances and rising independent political voices ahead of future electoral continue.
