Kasmuel McOure: ODM youth reject alliance with Gachagua

ODM Youth League representative, Kasmuel McOure

The ODM Youth League has ruled out any possibility of working with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in future political coalitions.

In a statement by ODM Youth League representative, Kasmuel McOure said Gachagua’s leadership approach and political views are not aligned with their values. 

McOure said the party’s young members support coalition-building, but not with leaders they believe represent a political ideology they do not subscribe to.

He stated that while ODM has historically championed unity and progressive partnerships, the youth segment would not support any formation in which Gachagua is a principal actor.

“We shall not be part of any formation that includes Rigathi Gachagua as a principal. No matter how persuasive any leader, whether within ODM or beyond, may attempt to be, they will not convince us to work with him,” he said.

McOure argued that the former Deputy President’s political outlook does not reflect the aspirations of young people pushing for reforms.  

He said the youth remember the role Gachagua played during the period of national protests over the Finance Bill.

“He should not pretend to have opposed the Finance Bill. He is on record saying they would ‘teach ODM legislators who voted NO a lesson."

McOure also claimed that recent statements by Gachagua suggested that youth-led protests were used to negotiate political advantages. 

He said this raised concern among young people who were seeking systemic change, not political bargaining.

“As one who was part of the movement, I speak for all of us when I say: We reject Rigathi Gachagua,” McOure added.

The youth wing reiterated their support for the broad-based arrangement championed by the late former ODM leader Raila Odinga.

He called on ODM-elected representatives to ensure young people are actively involved in decision-making.

The political activist also directed demands to the Kenya Kwanza administration, urging faster progress on economic empowerment and social and political reforms.

“We shall remain within the broad-based government where Raila left us, and we shall push for all reforms necessary for a more prosperous Kenya within this framework," McOure said.

He added that the elected members of the ODM Party must meticulously undertake the task while actively involving the youth.

According to him, the ODM youth will continue to call out leaders, regardless of their position, who offer us lip service without genuine youth inclusion.

“We expect economic, social, and political empowerment, comprehensive police reforms, and compensation for victims of police brutality as a matter of urgency. This remains our condition for continued support.”