East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Winnie Odinga has launched a scathing attack on businessman Okech Salah, accusing him of peddling “dangerous” and “reckless” falsehoods about her late father, former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga’s final moments.
In a explosive televised interview on Citizen TV, Winnie pulled no punches, branding Salah’s claims of being present at Raila’s bedside during his passing in October 2025 as a “flat-out lie.” Raila, the iconic opposition leader affectionately known as “Baba,” died at age 80 while receiving treatment in India, leaving Kenya in mourning.
“I’ve met Okech Salah once,” Winnie declared. “I’d like to believe nobody really knows him. When someone lies about something that didn’t happen—especially around such a sensitive moment—it raises serious questions about their motives.”
Salah, who has publicly styled himself as Raila’s “adopted son” and close confidant, recently claimed he was with the ODM leader until his last breath, even alleging he funded trips and played a pivotal role in Baba’s inner circle. He has defended his loyalty, insisting he never disrespected Raila’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga, or the family.
But Winnie dismissed the narrative outright, warning that fabricating events around a loved one’s death is not just irresponsible—it’s clout-chasing at its worst. “Such conduct should not be taken lightly,” she said. “Either he belongs at Mathare or with the DCI for scrutiny. Matters of truth, integrity, and respect for the deceased are sacred. Some lines should never be crossed.”
The remarks have ignited fierce debate amid ongoing ODM party wrangles following Raila’s death. With succession battles heating up— including disputes over acting leadership and potential coalitions with President William Ruto’s UDA—Salah’s assertions have been seen by some as an attempt to position himself as a gatekeeper to Raila’s legacy.
Critics accuse Salah of exploiting grief for influence, while supporters defend him as a genuine ally overlooked by the family. Winnie, however, urged Kenyans to treat his statements with caution, calling him a “serial liar” whose tales warrant investigation.
As Kenya grapples with life after Raila—a towering figure who shaped decades of politics—the controversy underscores the raw emotions still surrounding his passing. Winnie’s bold takedown highlights a family fiercely protecting Baba’s memory from opportunists.
The interview, aired amid broader discussions on ODM’s future, has gone viral, fueling calls for clarity and respect in honoring Raila Odinga’s enduring legacy.
