Raila’s supporters were organic. He discreetly assisted those in need who reached out to him, but he never gave out handouts, earning him the nickname “the stingy man.” Many ODM leaders who relied on him for their political survival hardly invested any money in their campaigns. They would simply invite Raila to their regions, using his presence as a platform to campaign without contributing their own resources.
However, the reality of Kenyan politics is that a lack of funds makes it nearly impossible to secure any position. The majority of Kenyans are poor, eager for tangible support, and they are often drawn to the money and drama that politicians provide. When a candidate has deep pockets, they are likely to attract a large following. Only Raila could campaign without offering cash, and no one would complain; people would leave satisfied and look forward to his next rally.
Now, out of nowhere, comes the newcomer, Mr. Oketch Salah. He seemingly skyrocketed to prominence by taking a few photos with Raila, perhaps to enhance his own popularity. Recently, he has been gathering large ODM crowds across various regions using his own funds and shows no signs of slowing down.
This development is causing quite a stir. Oketch has already garnered both love and hate in equal measure, and more than anything else, attention, which is why some ODM bigwigs are now opposing him.
Advice to Oketch is that, in “The 48 Laws of Power,” one must never outshine the master. The concern is that if he continues holding large rallies by utilizing his own resources, he may surpass the current leaders.
Ngesa Philip
