Oketch Salah reflects deeply on the struggle of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga family, emphasising that Raila died with a “heavy heart” due to repeated electoral betrayals and what he described as stolen victories. He highlights that despite their immense contribution to Kenya’s infrastructure and democracy, the family chose principle over wealth, refusing to “sell out” Kenyans for land or money.
Salah claims that before his passing, Raila Amolo Odinga had expressed a clear intent to support President William Ruto for the 2027 general election. He describes this as a “day and night” truth that he felt an obligation to share with the public, framing the “broad-based government” as a realisation of Raila’s final political vision.
The Leadership of Dr Oburu Oginga
A central theme of the speech is the endorsement of Dr Oburu Oginga as the substantive leader of the ODM party. Salah argues that the decision to have Oburu lead was based on wisdom rather than age, noting that a younger leader might have “disintegrated” the party during this fragile transition.
The “ear” of Raila: Salah reveals that Oburu was Raila’s closest confidant and “ears”, often tasked with resolving sensitive political matters behind the scenes.
Architect of Unity: He credits Dr Oburu as a primary architect behind the current broad-based government arrangement, asserting that Oburu’s wisdom is what keeps the party unified today.
Ruto and the “Betrayal” of Rigathi Gachagua
Salah provides a unique take on the fallout between President Ruto and his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua. He describes Ruto as a man of firm character, either “with you or not with you”—and claims that Gachagua’s downfall was caused by his own ultimatums and greed for power.
Using a Somali proverb about a man who goes to ask for a girl’s hand in marriage but ends up eyeing the mother, Salah suggests Gachagua became too interested in the “Big Seat” (the presidency) instead of focusing on his role as deputy, which ultimately led MPs from the Central region to push for his removal.
ODM Delegates
The speech concludes with a strong appeal to ODM delegates ahead of the National Delegates Conference (NDC):
Support Oburu Oginga: He urges delegates to stand firm behind Dr Oburu as the party leader and not to be swayed by bribery.
Authorise Talks with Ruto: He asks the people of South Rift to allow Dr Oburu to begin formal negotiations with President Ruto regarding a 2027 coalition.
National Tour: Salah announced that his team would be moving to the North Rift—including Turkana, West Pokot, and Nandi—to continue drumming up support for this new political direction.
Source: Kenya Newsline – Oketch Salah Speaks on Raila’s Last Moments
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