At last! Kasmuel McOure recognised during Raila’s farewell ceremony

ODM Youth League member Kasmuel McOure finally received public recognition during the farewell ceremony of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Bondo, Siaya County, ahead of his burial at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi on Sunday, October 19, 2025.

The moment came when Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga, who also serves as the ODM National Chairperson, paused her speech to acknowledge McOure as she invited Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir to address mourners.

Also watch: Nation mourns as Raila’s final journey reaches Bondo

Wanga, addressing the mourners, took a moment to speak directly to Kasmuel, acknowledging his loyalty to the party and his courage despite recent online ridicule. She encouraged him to stay strong and focused, saying

“As I invite our Deputy Party Leader, the Governor of Mombasa, I want to recognise Baba’s son, a young man who became Baba’s friend, Kasmuel McOure. Kasmuel, you are a serious man; you are going places. And if you are mocked, stay strong,” Wanga said, attending the state funeral on Sunday, October 19, 2025.

Wanga’s recognition followed widespread online discussions where Kenyans mocked McOure for being ignored by speakers during earlier tributes to Raila.

The young ODM loyalist had become a familiar face beside the opposition leader, frequently spotted accompanying him to political events and national engagements.

McOure first rose to national prominence during the 2024 Gen Z-led anti-Finance Bill protests, where he stood out as one of the movement’s outspoken youth voices. His commitment to social justice and proximity to Raila later earned him a role within the ODM Youth League, representing the energy and aspirations of a new generation.

Emotional farewell tribute

On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, McOure shared an emotional tribute to Raila on his X account, describing him as both a mentor and a personal friend.

“To the eternal gentleman, Baba. I’ll miss you deeply, my friend. Thank you for saving my life last year,” he wrote.

He also posted a screenshot of a WhatsApp exchange with Raila, where the ODM leader encouraged him to attend youth-focused meetings and continue sharing ODM’s story with the world.

As Kenya mourns Raila Odinga, McOure’s public recognition at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University marked a symbolic moment — a nod to the young voices Raila inspired and a reminder of his enduring belief in mentorship, unity, and democratic resilience.

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