Youth activist Kasmuel McOure shared that the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was more than just a political mentor; he was also a close friend who offered support in various ways, including financially and personally.
In an interview on the Iko Nini Podcast, McOure opened up about his relationship with the late ODM leader, sharing some touching insights and describing Raila as someone who truly cared for the people around him.
“The smallest amount Raila Odinga ever gave me is Sh100,000.” “I never asked him,” McOure mentioned.
He shared that Raila was always there for him. He was always there for me. “He really spoilt me,” he said.
McOure mentioned that Raila really made his travels a personal affair, always making sure he was comfortable and had the support he needed before heading out on any trip abroad.
“Whenever I travelled, he always took it to heart and made sure I was comfortable.” “He really cared for me a lot,” he said.
He mentioned that folks are often taken aback when they see him at international events and conferences, not realising the kind of backing he gets from the ODM leader.
“You know, people were always surprised to see me at those meetings, just wondering how I ended up in those places,” he remembered.
McOure shared that before his latest trip to the United States, Raila helped him out financially to make his travel possible.
“For my latest trip to the US, Baba probably gave me around 8,000 dollars (about Sh1, 032,000),” he mentioned, highlighting that Raila was always ready to lend a hand whenever he needed support.
“Baba always had my back,” McOure added. “He genuinely cared about me and was there for my journey in so many ways.”
The young activist shared that losing Raila has been really tough, calling him a person who truly represented generosity, empathy, and loyalty.
Besides his personal ties to Raila, McOure has really carved out a space for himself as one of Kenya’s most vocal Gen Z activists. He’s all about pushing for social justice, accountability, and good governance.
He was a key figure in the 2024 youth-led protests, which pushed for government transparency and demanded action against corruption and unfair economic policies.
McOure has frequently mentioned that we can’t have peace if it means sacrificing justice. He believes that the youth in Kenya should be able to live in a place where integrity and fairness are prioritised.
He’s really made a name for himself with his activism, becoming a bold voice for his generation on a national level.
But, you know, his rise to fame hasn’t been without its fair share of criticism.
Some young activists are saying that he’s getting a bit too cosy with government officials, claiming it doesn’t really fit with the leaderless and independent vibe of the protest movement.
McOure, on the other hand, believes that dialogue and accountability can go hand in hand, and that genuine change needs everyone to get involved.
Along with his activism, McOure is a musician, pianist, composer, and financial analyst too.
He’s gained international recognition for his leadership and innovation, even receiving the Mandela Washington Fellowship, which is a pretty prestigious program for young African leaders.
McOure is all about activism, music, and education. He’s really passionate about lifting up the voices of young people, encouraging them to stay alert and brave as they push for justice and better governance.
His thoughts on Raila Odinga give us a peek into a personal connection that’s all about mentorship, generosity, and common values.
He thinks that real leadership isn’t just about having power; it’s about being human too.
Raila passed away on October 15 due to cardiac arrest while he was getting treatment in India.
He was laid to rest on October 19 at his home in Bondo, out in the countryside.
Kasmuel McOure: Raila used to give me handouts, least Sh 100K
