Singer-turned-activist Kasmuel McOure is facing backlash from sections of Kenyans for failing to address the recent attack on fellow activist Morara Kebaso during his speech at the Bomas of Kenya. Kasmuel, who was given the opportunity to speak to the crowd, instead focused on the ongoing political discourse, particularly the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The criticism stems from his perceived shift towards aligning with the government, leading many to accuse him of being out of touch with the disenfranchised Gen Z, whom he claims to represent. Shortly after Morara was violently attacked by a mob and removed from the hall, Kasmuel took the stage.
Many expected him to first condemn the attack and show solidarity with his fellow activist, but instead, he immediately delved into his views on Gachagua’s impeachment, without addressing the assault on Morara.
Kasmuel passionately argued for Gachagua’s removal, stating, “Gachagua must go! Ndio tumalize ukabila Kenya, ndio tumalize shareholders, ndio tumalize siasa ya kuchanganya watu, Gachagua must go!” His speech appeared to resonate with some MPs present, such as Ruaraka MP TJ Kajwang, who stood behind him smiling, and Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie, who nodded in agreement.
However, many Kenyans took to social media, particularly X, to criticize Kasmuel for his failure to condemn the attack on Morara. One user, Stephen Mutuku, expressed his disappointment, saying, “Kasmuel went on that stage and spoke the language of our oppressors. He spoke just like them. He sounded just like any other Kenyan MP.” Others echoed similar sentiments, accusing him of being a sellout.
Morara Kebaso’s lawyer, Pareno Solonka, also weighed in, stating, “Kasmuel is a sellout and you now realize why him, kina Tarus and so many yappers here have been fighting Morara. Morara is the only young person WHO HAS NOT BEEN BOUGHT AND IS STAYING TRUE!” Even popular content creator Dennis Ombachi expressed his frustration, remarking, “N*gga was the next guest to the balcony. I dodged a bullet but at what cost!”
Kasmuel’s speech took place during the ongoing public participation event at Bomas, where the focus is on the impeachment motion against Gachagua. Despite the political discourse, many Kenyans feel he missed the opportunity to address a critical issue affecting a fellow activist.
