MWE Correspondent
Winnie Odinga, Member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) and daughter of the late Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has strongly refuted claims by businessman Oketch Salah that he was present during her father’s final moments.
Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, January 27, Winnie described the allegations as “dangerous falsehoods” and questioned the motivations behind them. She said the statements are misleading, exploit the sensitive circumstances surrounding her father’s death, and are deeply disrespectful to the family.
“I have met Oketch Salah, but I believe no one truly knows everything,” Winnie said. “Claiming to have been there when my father passed, when he was not, and speaking of events that never occurred, is extremely dangerous and raises serious questions about his intentions.”
Salah had publicly stated that he was by Raila Odinga’s side throughout his illness and at the time of his death. His assertions quickly attracted attention in both mainstream and social media, prompting debates about credibility and respect for the late leader’s legacy.
Winnie emphasized that such false narratives risk misrepresenting her father’s life and contributions. Raila Odinga, a central figure in Kenya’s political history, served as Prime Minister and was widely recognized for his role in advancing democratic reforms and shaping the nation’s governance. His legacy continues to resonate in Kenya and across the East African region.
The controversy also highlights the wider challenges of misinformation in the digital age, where claims — whether verified or not — can quickly influence public opinion. Analysts note that timely responses from credible sources are essential to prevent falsehoods from spreading and causing undue harm.
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By publicly rejecting Salah’s statements, Winnie Odinga aims to protect the factual narrative of her father’s final days while maintaining the dignity of the Odinga family. She further stressed that public figures have a responsibility to respect private and sensitive matters, especially regarding national icons whose legacies hold significant public importance.
The Odinga family remains a prominent political dynasty in Kenya, and stories involving them naturally attract attention. In this case, Winnie’s firm response has been widely covered by local and regional media, reflecting both the enduring influence of her father and the sensitivity surrounding his passing.
No official response from Oketch Salah has been reported since Winnie Odinga’s statement, leaving questions about the veracity and intent of his claims. For Kenyans, the incident underscores the importance of verifying information and exercising caution before making public assertions about private family matters or historical events.
This episode serves as a reminder of how quickly narratives can shape public discourse and the need for responsible communication, particularly when it involves influential political families and national leaders.
