Oketch Salah narrates his father-son bond with late Raila in emotional tribute
By David Nthua, January 21, 2026Oketch Salah, an influential figure within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has described how his relationship with the late Raila Odinga was like the biblical David and Jonathan.
Taking to his X handle, Oketch narrated that from day one he was with Raila; they used to talk about deep things, private ones that cannot be shared publicly, even as he pushed back against claims that he has been trying to rewrite history for attention.
Oketch, who said he was being accused, chose to respond in a calm and direct tone, insisting that he stayed with Raila from the moment he first fell ill until his last breath.
“I was with Baba Raila Odinga from the time he first fell ill until his final moments on earth. That is a fact,” he wrote.
‘This is lived experience’
In his emotional statement, Oketch said he was not speaking for sympathy, relevance, or political mileage, but because he felt the truth needed to be stated clearly.
He described moments of fear and helplessness, claiming there were times he genuinely thought Raila would not make it, especially when the former Prime Minister was in pain.
“There were moments when it was only me and one security guard present, holding Baba, trying to steady him, trying to help him through the pain. This is not a story. This is lived experience,” he added.
Oketch also clarified that the security officer he was with was not Maurice Ogetta, seemingly addressing another claim that had been circulating online.
“For the record, that security officer was not Maurice Ogetta,” he said.
Respect for Raila’s family
Oketch further insisted that he never attempted to replace Raila’s family, nor did he ever disrespect Mama Ida Odinga or Raila’s children.
“I have never claimed to replace Baba’s family, nor have I ever disrespected Mama Ida or his children,” he stated.
He dismissed allegations that he insulted, sidelined, or spoke ill of them, calling the claims false and malicious.
Oketch also revealed that he and Raila held extensive conversations, including personal and strategic discussions, but he maintained that he would not reveal them out of respect for Raila and his family.
“Out of respect for him and his family, I will not disclose those discussions,” he wrote.
He concluded by saying he is ready to face public scrutiny, adding that truth does not fear examination, even as he urged critics to stop turning grief into noise.
“Pain deserves dignity, not spectacle,” he stated.