Singer-turned-activist Kasmuel McOure is facing backlash from a section of Kenyans after failing to address the assault on fellow activist Morara Kebaso during a public participation forum at Bomas of Kenya.
The event, centered around the impeachment motion of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, took a controversial turn when Morara was violently attacked and ejected from the venue by a mob.
Many had expected Kasmuel, who took the stage shortly after the attack, to speak out against the violence and express solidarity with his fellow activist.
Instead, he bypassed the incident entirely, diving straight into his critique of Gachagua’s leadership, calling for his removal.
This move angered many of Kasmuel’s followers, who accused him of aligning with political elites and ignoring the pressing issues affecting ordinary Kenyans, particularly the younger generation he claims to represent.
“Kasmuel had a chance to stand with Morara and speak against the violence, but instead, he played politics like the very people he’s been criticizing,” one social media user commented.
Stephen Mutuku, a vocal supporter of Morara, added, “He sounded like any other politician, detached from the struggles of the common mwananchi.
Is this the same guy who was with us in the streets?”
Critics also pointed out that Kasmuel’s speech seemed to align with the political rhetoric of government officials, with some even questioning his authenticity as an activist.
Notably, Ruaraka MP TJ Kajwang was seen applauding Kasmuel during his speech, and Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie also expressed support, further fueling claims that Kasmuel may have compromised his principles.
In the midst of the backlash, Morara’s lawyer, Pareno Solonka, took to social media to call out Kasmuel as a “sellout,” stating that Morara remains the only young activist who hasn’t been co-opted by the political system.
Popular content creator Dennis Ombachi also weighed in, saying, “Kasmuel dodged addressing the real issue at what cost?”
Kasmuel’s decision to sidestep the Morara attack has ignited a heated debate online, with many questioning whether he is still in touch with the people he claims to represent.
The public participation forum at Bomas continues, but the controversy surrounding Kasmuel’s speech has become the dominant conversation.