Vihiga Senator and ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi has sharply criticised party member Oketch Salah for producing merchandise that combines the Orange Democratic Movement’s signature colours with President William Ruto’s image.
Speaking during a public address in Shamakhokho on Saturday, February 7, 2026, Osotsi accused certain individuals within ODM of attempting to undermine the party by pushing for a premature coalition agreement with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
“This ODM of ours, thieves have entered inside. They are saying that we should go and sign an agreement with UDA. Do you want UDA? Do you want UDA?” Osotsi asked the crowd, which responded with a resounding “No.”
The Senator insisted that ODM must first focus on implementing the 10-point agenda left by the late Raila Odinga before engaging in any coalition talks.
“We are saying that the 10-point agenda that Mzee Raila left behind, which talks about 10 issues, should be implemented first before we talk about matters of agreements. Because we still have one and a half years, what’s the hurry? Why do they want a quick marriage? And we know they want a quick marriage so they can destroy the ODM party from inside,” he said.
Osotsi reserved his harshest criticism for the recent comrades’ meeting held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), where ODM colours were displayed alongside President Ruto’s image in an event organised by Oketch Salah.
“You saw another mkora walking around, he has produced orange t-shirts, and then the picture he has put in the middle, he has put Ruto’s picture,” Osotsi remarked, drawing laughter and applause from the crowd.
He further warned UDA leaders to respect ODM as an independent political entity despite their control of the national government. “We are saying UDA party, you are leading the government, but respect the ODM party. Don’t mix orange with those other things of UDA,” he added.
Osotsi announced plans to mobilise ODM leaders committed to the party’s founding principles, saying the initiative will focus on protecting and reclaiming the movement from internal sabotage.
