- Kasmwel McOure attended the state funeral of Raila Odinga at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST)
- Governor Gladys Wanga praised the young man for his dedication and assured him of a bright future
- Wanga’s message encouraged Kasmwel to stay strong and focused on his path despite any challenges or mockery
Homa Bay Governor has recognised activist Kasmuel McOure during former prime minister Raila Odinga’s funeral, who died on October 15, in India.
Source: Instagram
Tens of thousands of mourners gathered at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) on Sunday, October 19, for the state funeral service of the veteran politician.
The solemn occasion in Bondo, Siaya county, marked the culmination of a week of national mourning for the influential political figure, who died in India at the age of 80.
Kenyan leaders, including President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, former president Uhuru Kenyatta, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and Musalia Mudavadi, eulogised Raila Odinga.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga was also involved in running the State funeral.
She recognised Kasmwel and assured him of a bright future.
Wanga encouraged Kasmwel not to be bothered by mockery.
“I would like to recognise Baba’s son. A young man who became Baba’s friend, Kasmwel McOure. Kasmwel, you are a serious man. You are going places. Even if you are mocked, stay strong,” she said.
What happened at Raila’s funeral?
Edwin Sifuna, Gladys Wanga differ over ODM’s future direction
ODM secretary general Edwin Sifuna rejected calls to embrace the broad-based government, distancing himself from fellow party members who have expressed willingness to work with President Ruto.
Addressing a cheerful and emotional crowd, Sifuna paid tribute to Raila, acknowledging the late leader’s profound influence on his political journey.
He recounted a personal moment when he and Raila once discussed what the former prime minister might say about his legacy if he were to pass away before him.
Source: Facebook
The reflection underscored the depth of their relationship and the weight of Raila’s mentorship.
Sifuna used the platform to caution against divisive narratives within ODM, urging unity and fidelity to Raila’s final instructions.
He emphasised that Raila had spoken clearly to the nation on September 22, 2025, outlining ODM’s path forward.
According to Sifuna, also the Nairobi senator, Raila had instructed the party to prepare for the 2027 elections and had not endorsed any deviation from ODM’s core identity.
Sifuna’s remarks were opposed by other ODM leaders present at the funeral, including national chairperson Gladys Wanga and Raila’s sister, Rose Odinga.
What was Wanga’s take on ODM and broad-based government?
Wanga reiterated that Raila had left the party firmly within the broad-based government, cautioning against any attempts to distort his message.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
