Political aspirant Oketch Salah has made a public and controversial appeal to Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, urging him to either support Party Leader Dr. Oburu Odinga and President William Ruto’s re-election bid or consider leaving the party altogether.
Salah argued that ODM is at a critical crossroads and must align itself with what he described as “pragmatic national leadership.”
He claimed that Dr. Oburu Odinga, as the party leader, represents continuity and stability within ODM, and that supporting President Ruto’s second-term ambitions is necessary for political relevance and access to state power.
Salah accused Sifuna of engaging in internal dissent that weakens the party’s coherence and public image.
According to him, ODM leaders must speak with one voice, especially on strategic national issues, instead of sending mixed signals to supporters and coalition partners.
The statement comes amid growing speculation about ODM’s internal divisions, particularly over whether the party should remain in opposition or pursue closer cooperation with President Ruto’s administration.
While Raila Odinga has historically positioned ODM as the backbone of opposition politics, recent political developments and behind-the-scenes negotiations have fuelled debate about a possible realignment.
Dr. Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother and the current ODM Party Leader, has been associated with a more conciliatory approach towards the government, advocating dialogue, national unity, and institutional engagement rather than confrontational politics.
Salah’s remarks shows that some ODM figures now view cooperation with Ruto as a strategic necessity rather than a betrayal of opposition ideals.
He argued that supporting Ruto’s re-election could secure development projects, government appointments, and political survival for ODM leaders.
However, Sen. Edwin Sifuna has consistently maintained that ODM’s identity is rooted in accountability, social justice, and opposition to policies that burden ordinary Kenyans.
He has been one of the most vocal critics of the Kenya Kwanza government, particularly on taxation, cost of living, and governance issues.
The ultimatum also raises questions about Salah’s own standing within ODM. Party insiders have previously stated that he is not a recognised official within the party’s top structures, making his bold public demands controversial and politically risky.