The late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and acrivist Samuel McOureYouth activist Kasmuel McOure has revealed that the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was not only a political mentor but also a close friend who supported him in many ways, both financially and personally.
Speaking during an interview on Iko Nini Podcast, McOure shared heartfelt details about his relationship with the late ODM leader, describing Raila as a man who cared deeply for the people around him.
“The least amount Raila Odinga ever gave me is Sh100,000. I never asked him,” McOure said.
He revealed that Raila was always looking out for him. "He was always looking out for me. He really spoiled me,” he stated.
McOure said that Raila took his travels personally, often ensuring that he was comfortable and well-supported before embarking on any trip abroad.
“Each time I travelled, he would take it personally and make sure I was comfortable. He cared for me so much,” he said.
He added that people were often surprised to see him attending international events and conferences, unaware of the kind of support he received from the ODM leader.
“People would be shocked when they saw me at some of those meetings, wondering how I managed to reach those places,” he recalled.
McOure revealed that before his most recent trip to the United States, Raila gave him financial support to facilitate his travel.
“For my latest trip to the US, Baba probably gave me about 8,000 dollars (about Sh1, 032,000),” he said, emphasising that Raila never hesitated to help him whenever he needed assistance.
“Baba always looked out for me,” McOure added. “He really cared about me and supported my journey in many ways.”
The youthful activist said losing Raila has been deeply painful, describing him as a man who embodied generosity, empathy and loyalty.
Beyond his personal connection to Raila, McOure has made a name for himself as one of Kenya’s most outspoken Gen Z activists, known for his strong advocacy for social justice, accountability and good governance.
He played a central role in the 2024 youth-led protests that called for government transparency and action against corruption and unfair economic policies.
McOure has often said that peace cannot come at the expense of justice, insisting that Kenya’s youth deserve to live in a country where integrity and fairness are upheld.
His activism has earned him national recognition as a fearless voice of his generation.
However, his growing prominence has not come without criticism.
Some fellow youthful activists have accused him of engaging too closely with government officials, arguing that it goes against the leaderless and independent spirit of the protest movement.
McOure, however, has maintained that dialogue and accountability can coexist, and that real change requires engagement from all sides.
In addition to his activism, McOure is also a musician, pianist, composer and financial analyst.
He has been recognised internationally for his leadership and innovation, including being honoured with the Mandela Washington Fellowship, a prestigious programme for young African leaders.
Through his work in activism, music and education, McOure continues to champion the voices of young people, urging them to remain vigilant and courageous in demanding justice and better governance.
His reflections on Raila Odinga offer a glimpse into a personal bond built on mentorship, generosity and shared ideals.
He holds the belief that true leadership is defined not just by power, but by humanity.
Raila died on October 15 of cardiac arrest while receiving treatment in India.
He was buried on October 19 at his rural home in Bondo.
