Leaving the Course? Kasmuel McOure Defends Himself After Backlash Over Photos with UDA’s Silvanus Osoro.

Popular Kenyan activist Kasmuel McOure found himself at the centre of controversy on Wednesday, September 18, after a photo of him with United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Majority Chief Whip Silvanus Osoro went viral. The images, shared widely across social media platforms, sparked backlash from some Kenyans who accused McOure of fraternising with government officials he has previously criticised.

Unplanned Encounter Sparks Online Criticism

In response, McOure clarified that the meeting with Osoro was unplanned, explaining that they had simply bumped into each other at a members’ club. He used the opportunity to confront Osoro on several issues he has raised on social media.

“I go to that members’ club often and meet many Kenyans there. The Majority Whip of Parliament is one of the members. It was my first time meeting him, and I took the opportunity to say to his face what I’ve always said online,” McOure explained.

Addressing Government Failures.

During the interaction, McOure addressed critical issues such as extrajudicial killings, unmet promises on service delivery, and the government’s alleged disregard for the rule of law. He noted that while they disagreed on several matters, the conversation was civil and even ended on a lighter note.

“We disagreed on several issues and agreed on a few. We even had a good laugh before I moved on to the meeting I was actually there for,” he added.

Critics Miss the Bigger Picture, Says McOure

Following the viral photo, McOure faced accusations of abandoning his activist roots. However, he reminded his critics that activism goes beyond street protests and that his responsibility is to speak truth to power whenever the opportunity arises.

“My online critics often try to confine me to protests alone. You cannot just dismiss me to die in the streets, as if my leadership was destined to end there,” he remarked.

Plans for Civic Engagement

McOure reiterated his commitment to advocating for underprivileged youth and families affected by government actions. The Pulse Influencer Awards 2024 nominee called for broader civic education, both online and in person, and announced plans to intensify his door-to-door campaigns across the country.

“If the acceptable version of civic education to the online population is about holding rallies, then we’ll start this week, ensuring no community—both online and on-ground—is left out. We will drain this swamp and take political power!” he declared.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa.