NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 7 – ODM politician and longtime family friend Oketch Salah has issued a detailed statement responding to accusations about his role during the illness and final moments of former Prime Minister the late Raila Odinga. His statement comes amid widespread public discussion and online speculation.
Salah emphasized that he was present from the time Raila first fell ill until his final moments, insisting that his account is based on lived experience, rather than political motives.
“I am the one being accused, so I will respond directly and calmly,” Salah said. “I was with Baba Raila Odinga from the time he first fell ill until his final moments on earth. That is a fact.”
Witnessing the Final Moments
Salah said he remained by Raila’s side during painful episodes, including instances when only a single security officer was present. He recalled moments of fear and urgency.
“There were moments I genuinely thought I was losing him. At times, it was only me and one security guard, holding Baba and trying to steady him through the pain,” he explained.
He clarified that the officer present during one critical incident was not Maurice Ogetta, as widely alleged, but Francis Ogolla, a security team member and relative of Raila Odinga.
Private Conversations With Raila Odinga
During the same period, Salah held extensive private conversations with Raila Odinga, covering political, personal, and strategic matters.
“Baba and I had extensive conversations. Out of respect for him and his family, I will not disclose those discussions. Silence should never be mistaken for fear or falsehood,” Salah said.
Addressing Family Disrespect Claims
Salah rejected claims that he disrespected Raila Odinga’s family or attempted to replace them.
“I have never claimed to replace Baba’s family, nor have I ever insulted Mama Ida or his children. Any suggestion that I did is false and malicious,” he said.
He explained that his presence was explicitly allowed by Raila Odinga.
“I did not force myself into anyone’s life. I was present because Baba allowed me to be present, consistently and knowingly.”
Open to Public Scrutiny
Writing on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Salah said he welcomes public examination.
“I am ready and willing to be interviewed publicly on these matters, at any time, on any credible platform. Truth does not fear examination,” he declared.
He warned against attempts to weaponize his role for political purposes.
“What I will not accept is being turned into a convenient villain so others can fight internal battles or rewrite lived history.”
Karen Residence Health Scare
Salah recounted a health scare at Raila Odinga’s Karen residence shortly before the former Prime Minister traveled to India.
“That night, we had just finished watching the Manchester City vs Arsenal match. As we walked, I noticed something wasn’t right. Baba suddenly became weak and nearly collapsed,” he said.
He supported Raila physically while calling for help from Francis Ogolla, who brought a chair.
“In those few moments, I honestly thought things would take a different turn. By God’s mercy, Baba regained consciousness shortly after.”
Praise for Maurice Ogetta
Although Ogetta was not present during the Karen incident, Salah praised the security officer for his dedicated service.
“Maurice Ogetta served Baba faithfully for many years. He was with Baba in India, all the way to the very end. His dedication will never be forgotten.”
Standing by the Truth
In closing, Salah said public criticism or political pressure would not alter his account.
“I know where I stood. I know what I did. And I know what Baba entrusted me with. Those facts do not change because of online mobs or political theatrics.”
