Alai described the assault as "stupidity" driven by jealousy and warned that infighting could tear the party apart. He urged members to stop fighting and focus on strengthening ODM. His post quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions online.
The assault occurred during a rally at Linda Grounds led by Oburu Oginga, Raila Odinga’s elder brother and a leading contender for ODM leadership.
Salah, who calls himself Raila's "adopted son," had been mobilizing supporters by distributing cash to residents to boost attendance. Videos showed him handing out money from a convoy.
While some praised Salah for energizing the party base, critics accused him of promoting vote-buying. The rally quickly turned tense as rival factions confronted him, leading to physical altercations and chaotic scenes reported on social media.
This incident reflects deeper divisions within ODM after Raila Odinga's death in October 2025. Some party leaders push for an independent 2027 presidential bid, including Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and Siaya Governor James Orengo. Others, like Salah, back alliances and support Oburu for leadership while claiming resources to counter internal vote manipulation.
Salah’s activities have sparked controversy. A previous February 6 event at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre featured Ruto-branded items.
ODM publicly disowned the event on February 7, saying his actions were personal. Unfulfilled promises during that rally also saw mobilized youths turn against him, foreshadowing the violence in Siaya.
Critics, including Raila’s daughter Winnie Odinga and Senator Ruth Odinga, question Salah’s claims of closeness to Raila.
Even Alai previously stated in January that he did not know or trust Salah. In his latest post, however, Alai praised Salah’s contributions and warned that attacks like this damage the party.
Party leaders, including Gladys Wanga, continue to call for discipline. The Siaya incident underscores the risks of internal conflict and the urgent need for reconciliation if ODM hopes to remain strong ahead of the 2027 elections.