Political activist Kasmuel McOure has explained his decision to join the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, despite previously advocating for a leaderless, faceless, and party-free youth revolution.
Speaking on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the self-proclaimed revolutionary stated that his choice to align with the ODM was driven by a desire to contribute to something larger and play a leading role in driving meaningful change.
“My purpose is simple, yet profound. I am here to stand in the ranks of the youth league of the largest, most consistent, and most organized political party in our nation and beyond,” Kasmuel said.
Adding: “It is my privilege to be mentored by the most influential, steadfast, and visionary leader this country has ever known. Raila Odinga is a man who has dedicated his life to the struggle for justice, for freedom, for the future of this land.”
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A question I’ve been asked often of late, now that I’ve joined the @TheODMparty, is whether I could challenge His Excellency The Rt. Honourable Raila Odinga. Let me be crystal clear: I have no need, nor any intention, to do so. I joined this party not to rival its leadership, but… pic.twitter.com/Nr70qAHM5C
— Kasmuel McOure (@_KasKazini) November 26, 2024
Kasmuel who shot to prominence during the build-up and at the height of the anti-tax protests in Kenya in June and July of 2024, was among the activists whose faces and presence stood out.
Did Kasmuel Clout Chase?
Controversy began in September when Kasmuel McOure was spotted at a restaurant with Sylvanus Osoro, the Majority Whip of the National Assembly.
The pair were photographed sharing a light moment, sparking questions on X (formerly Twitter) about Kasmuel’s commitment to the Gen Z-led struggle for better governance.
Although Kasmuel expressed deep regret over the photo, another incident followed two weeks later at the Bomas of Kenya during a public participation forum on the impending impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
During the function, fellow activist Morara Kebaso was roughed up by attendees of the public participation exercise after he requested for the microphone to give his opinion.
Kasmuel who was later handed the microphone steered clear of condemning Kebaso’s harassment, much to the chagrin of Kenyans on X, whose doubts on his loyalty seemed to have been confirmed.
During the homecoming ceremony of ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga in Homa Bay County, Kasmuel announced his decision to transition from the Gen Z movement to align with Odinga’s party.
Since then, the activist-turned-youth mobilizer has become a regular presence at Odinga’s meetings in his Capitol Hill office.
Kasmuel has expressed his aspiration to one day carry the torch of leadership from Odinga.
“He is a man who, despite his many duties, always makes time for the youth; rescheduling his day, sacrificing his own rest, simply to sit with us, to guide us, to teach us. I am blessed to be part of this journey, and I am determined to carry forward his torch,” he stated.
