Close confidant of the late Raila Odinga Oketch Salah has finally responded to stinging remarks made by Winnie Odinga during her explosive interview on Citizen TV with host Yvonne Okwara.
In a measured morning post on X, Salah addressed the claims revealing he had deliberately stayed silent out of deep respect for Her Excellency the Ambassador, Mama Ida Odinga who was recently nominated as Kenya’s ambassador. He described his choice to remain quiet as intentional, but noted that “some things need clarity.”
Salah firmly stood by his previous accounts of his final moments with Raila, whom he affectionately called “Baba,” insisting those experiences were “real, painful and lived.” He promised a fuller response in an upcoming interview.
The controversy stems from Winnie’s interview, where she reportedly dismissed Salah as “mentally unstable,” suggesting he belongs to Mathare Hospital (a major psychiatric facility in Nairobi) or DCI custody on Thika Road. Sources and online reactions indicate she questioned his proximity to the Odinga family, alleging he was largely unknown, absent during Raila’s final moments, and fabricating stories for relevance—claims that have fueled family feud narratives within ODM circles.
Salah, a Migori businessman who rose to prominence as Raila’s constant companion during his India treatment trips and final days, has faced scrutiny over his self-described “adopted son” status. His posts sharing intimate moments with Raila sparked curiosity and backlash, with critics accusing him of seeking undue influence post-Raila’s passing.
The exchange highlights lingering tensions in the Odinga family and ODM ecosystem following Raila’s death, as factions grapple with legacy, access, and authenticity. Salah’s respectful yet firm tone signals he may escalate the matter publicly, while urging restraint in honor of Mama Ida.
As reactions swirl online, the episode underscores the delicate balance of grief, politics, and personal narratives in Kenya’s high-stakes political families.
By Nairobihub