“I Don’t Know Him”- Ruth Odinga Rejects Claims of Close Ties with Oketch Salah

Kisumu woman representative Ruth Odinga has publicly questioned the claims of Migori businessman Oketch Salah, who says he was closely connected to the Odinga family. Salah has repeatedly shared alleged private conversations he had with the late former premier Raila Odinga, prompting mixed reactions within the Orange Democratic Movement.

Speaking to KTN News on Wednesday, February 18, Ruth said she had only met Salah a few times. She dismissed his claims of a strong relationship. “I really don’t know him well. I think I’ve met him about three times in my life,” she said. Ruth said she does not want to focus on Salah and urged him to respect the family’s privacy.

Ruth also denied Salah’s statement that he was present during Raila’s final moments. She explained that she was in India with her brother at the time of Raila’s passing. “I was with my brother when he passed. I never saw him there. I don’t know him personally,” she added. She clarified that any gratitude she showed toward Salah was based on reports that he had been a friend to Raila, not on personal interactions.

The Kisumu MP emphasized the importance of integrity. She said private conversations with Raila should not be publicized. “If he was a friend of my brother, he should have had the integrity to keep it private,” Ruth stated. She asked Salah to give the Odinga family space to mourn and grieve.

Salah’s continued sharing of alleged confidential messages has stirred debate within political circles. Ruth’s remarks appear to distance the family from him while reinforcing the need for discretion. She stressed that her focus remains on political work and party cohesion, rather than personal associations.

By speaking out, Ruth Odinga is clarifying the limits of her relationship with Salah. She aims to protect the family’s privacy while addressing misinformation circulating online and in media reports.