Youthful political activist Kasmuel McOure, popularly known as Kaskazini, has declared that asking former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to be his political mentor is the best decision he has ever made.
In a statement on Sunday, Kasmuel praised Raila’s unparalleled ability to connect with his supporters, stating that learning political organization from the veteran opposition leader is a surreal experience.
“Asking Raila Odinga to mentor me is one of the boldest and best decisions I’ve ever made. His deep connection with his constituency from the grassroots up is truly remarkable. Learning political organization from the enigma of Kenyan politics is a surreal experience,” he posted on X.
Kasmuel is among the emerging youthful political figures who rose to prominence during the 2024 anti-government Generation Z protests. His activism and engagement with the youth have since positioned him as a rising political voice in the country.
In November 2024, he made the strategic decision to officially join Raila’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), a party he describes as the only pro-people movement in East and Central Africa. Following a meeting with ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga in Homa Bay, Kasmuel revealed that the party is now focused on revitalizing its youth and student leagues across the country.
“If you’re willing to join a substantive political movement for a fair, democratic Kenya where everyone can live with dignity, consider @TheODMparty – the largest pro-people party in East and Central Africa! We’re revitalizing the Youth and Students’ Leagues and are calling on passionate young Kenyans to help shape our future,” he stated.
Since then, Kasmuel has been actively involved in ODM’s activities, frequently accompanying Raila in his political engagements across the country. Notably, he has often been seen sharing the same helicopter with Raila, signaling his growing role within the party’s inner circle.
His involvement in ODM’s affairs also extended beyond Kenya, as he recently traveled to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during the African Union Commission elections, where Raila sought to lead the continental body.
With his political aspirations gaining momentum, Kasmuel’s journey under Raila’s mentorship could shape the future of youth leadership in Kenya’s political landscape.
