WINGS CLIPPED: KENYANS SPECULATE ON ACTIVIST KASMUEL’S FATE AFTER RAILA’S DEATH

In the wake of veteran statesman Raila Odinga’s passing, a sections of Kenyans have shifted from pure mourning to focus on the fate of activist Kasmuel McOure, who was closely associated with Odinga’s movement. 

A common sentiment emerging from social media analysis is that the activist who derived his influence primarily from the proximity to the late leader may now face an uncertain future. Commentators have pointed to figures like Kasmuel  speculating that without the protection and platform of his mentor, his political influence could end.

“The first wings to be clipped will likely be Kasmuel’s. He flew too close to the sun, unfortunately,” posted Lewis Ngunyi. This was echoed by other users, with one, Salim Ishmael, stating bluntly, “Kasmuel itabidi amerudi kwa usanii na muziki” (Kasmuel will have to return to art and music).

With many Kenyans online predicting a reckoning for those who “depended on Raila’s name to gain political mileage,” as user George Diano noted. Diano further suggested that even figures within the Odinga family, such as his wife Ida, would face challenges in holding the coalition together.

A critical thread in the conversation questions the public’s loyalty to its champions. Activist Onyango Okello posted, “If Kenyans can insult and wish death for Raila Odinga… what makes Cop Shakur think that Kenyans will appreciate and thank him for quitting his job to fight for them?” He concluded, “Kenyans are not people to sacrifice and fight for, they are people to be used.”

As the nation navigates this power vacuum, the court of public opinion is already in session, forecasting a shift in Kenya’s activist and political arena where alignment with the late “Jakom” is no longer a guaranteed shield or strategy.