ODM Youth Leader Kasmuel McOure has dismissed claims that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is facing internal collapse, saying the party has endured far tougher challenges and remains resilient.
Speaking on Radio Generation, he argued that threats of defections and unrest within the party are nothing new, and that ODM continues to stand strong.
He criticized what he called the misapplication of “the spirit of Baba,” a reference to party leader Raila Odinga, stressing that it should drive economic empowerment and development rather than fuel street protests.
“The spirit of Baba cannot only be where tear gas canisters are being thrown, only where people die at rallies,” McOure said on Tuesday. “When roads are being launched in Migori, when our people are enjoying employment in schools, the spirit of Baba cannot be there?”
McOure also addressed recent controversy following the removal of Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, arguing that the party has survived far more difficult moments.
“These threats, we have had them since the party was formed… the biggest loss the party would have faced is the death of the party leader, we faced so much pain, the party still stands,” he said.
He defended the process that led to Sifuna’s ouster, emphasizing that changes were carried out within ODM’s constitutional framework, which allows leadership decisions to be ratified through the National Governing Council or the National Delegates Convention. McOure criticized the former Secretary General for being “missing in action” during party proceedings.
“You cannot continuously skip meetings, and then suddenly when resolutions are passed by members of the party, suddenly you want to tell us that you want to speak. Where were you during all the meetings?”
On the question of Sifuna returning to office, McOure was unequivocal. “He will not be coming back as Secretary General, because we intend to uphold this decision,” he said, even as court proceedings continue.
The youth leader insisted that Odinga’s political influence extends beyond demonstrations, framing the party’s mission around economic development. He said the ODM leader’s legacy is tied to what he called the “fourth liberation,” which focuses on empowering citizens economically.
“This thing where now you want to take us back to as if we are in 1992… we are saying we will win the 2027 election decisively. It will not be easy, but we will win it,” McOure said.
In a surprising twist, McOure also reaffirmed his support for President William Ruto’s re-election campaign, stating he will actively mobilize youth in his favor despite what he described as growing anti-president sentiment.
