Kasmuel McOure. Photo: Courtesy
Former protest leader and ODM youth wing member Kasmuel McOure has defended his decision to abandon last year’s protest movement and align himself with formal politics, saying the change was driven by accountability concerns and the need for tangible political outcomes.
In a statement posted on X, McOure said he was the public face and leader of an assembly that coordinated the protests, bringing together about 64 organisations from political parties, social justice centres, and non-governmental organisations.
He said he left after concluding that parts of the coalition were more focused on sustaining protests than delivering political change.
McOure said disagreements emerged over strategy and accountability, arguing that a “carefully choreographed culture of protest” had replaced genuine efforts to influence policy and governance.
He said this shift forced him to reassess his role within the movement.
The ODM youth leader linked the backlash against him to his political decisions, including supporting the impeachment of Joffri, joining ODM, and engaging publicly with President William Ruto.
He said he was subjected to a sustained smear campaign, despite no allegations being supported by evidence.
According to McOure, repeated calls for anyone accusing him of wrongdoing to present proof have gone unanswered.
He said the attacks were rooted in political differences rather than factual misconduct, adding that he continued his public and political life without interruption.
McOure also renewed his call for an audit of organisations that formed the protest coalition, saying accountability had been avoided for years.
He cited the recent public scrutiny of a well-known civil society organisation over alleged fraud, arguing that reactions from some civil society leaders focused on claims of persecution rather than addressing the allegations.
He said the matter had been sufficiently discussed and expressed hope that victims involved in the ongoing cases would receive justice.
He also urged Kenyans to continue supporting credible organisations, particularly those assisting survivors of abuse and gender-based violence.
McOure concluded by announcing mobilisation efforts through the Broad Based Youth Front.
He said he believes meaningful youth-driven change now lies in structured and open engagement with President Ruto’s administration, rather than continued street protests.