Activist-turned-politician Kasmuel McOure has publicly criticized the ODM leadership for neglecting the interests of young members within the party. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, McOure expressed his disappointment with the party's approach, stating that the youth have been relegated to the backburner with no consideration for their interests. He cited the 10-point agenda, which was originally drafted by ODM, and highlighted that points 2, 4, and 6 specifically focused on youth issues.
McOure's criticism comes amid internal conflicts within ODM, with different factions pushing for various interests. Some groups want to maintain loyalty to President William Ruto without conditions, while others demand equal shares of government positions. There is also a push for ODM to be given the Deputy President's position, with some identifying Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya as the ideal candidate. McOure feels that the party's focus on these issues has overshadowed the needs of young members.
McOure pointed out that the only youthful person nominated by ODM was Gabriel Oguda, who should have been a Principal Secretary. He praised Oguda's impact in COIN-10, which still resonates today. McOure contrasted ODM's approach with that of UDA, which nominated young people like Kevin Kiarie and Lenah Mati in their twenties. He emphasized that the youth in ODM must be allowed to enjoy the fruits of their labor and not be perpetually relegated to secondary roles.
McOure also criticized those who have been giving conditions to President Ruto ahead of the elections, calling them ungrateful to the Head of State for helping rescue ODM from collapse. He stated that the party will go into negotiations firmly on President Ruto's side, with leaders whose pursuit of the greater good supersedes personal ambitions. McOure's comments reflect his concerns about the party's direction and the need for change.
In a separate tweet, McOure admitted that ODM made a mistake by not listening to dissenting voices, leading to the exit of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. He revealed that leadership was forewarned about the Linda Ground push but pressed on despite reservations. McOure acknowledged that the party's failure to cut losses led to the emergence of a rival movement, Linda Mwananchi.
McOure reflected on the consequences of ODM's miscalculation, which allowed the Linda Mwananchi movement to claim the name and gain momentum. He recalled that ODM was at its weakest when President Ruto stood with the party, and young people, including himself, worked zealously to support the party. McOure's comments highlight the need for ODM to reassess its approach and prioritize the interests of its youthful members.
The criticism from McOure comes at a time when ODM is navigating internal conflicts and preparing for the 2027 General Election. The party's leadership will need to address McOure's concerns and find a way to balance the interests of different factions within the party. The youth's role in ODM and the party's overall direction will be crucial in determining its future.
Key points
- Kasmuel McOure criticizes ODM leadership for excluding youth and adopting a "tired mentality".
- McOure contrasts ODM's approach with UDA's nomination of young people for key positions.
- McOure admits ODM made a mistake by not listening to dissenting voices, leading to the exit of Edwin Sifuna.
