ODM youth leader Kasmuel McOure has spoken publicly about his difficulty coming to terms with the death of Raila Odinga, describing the loss as deeply personal and emotionally disorienting.
In an interview on The Oga Obinna Show on Monday, McOure said he remains in disbelief weeks after the veteran politician’s burial in Bondo, Siaya County.
“It has been very confusing. I am still in a state of shock. Even last week, I tried calling him,” he said, recalling how Raila’s number is still saved among his favourites.
McOure’s remarks mirror the emotional state of many supporters within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) who viewed Raila as both a political mentor and a father figure.
For over four decades, the former Prime Minister was at the centre of Kenya’s opposition politics, shaping debates on democracy, reform, and governance.
According to the youth leader, the loss has been hard to process amid the outpouring of tributes and public mourning.
“I just feel like he is gonna come back,” McOure said, adding that he has not yet had the space to fully grieve privately.
He also explained why he chose not to wear traditional attire during the burial.
“I had planned to wear traditional regalia for Baba. But an elder advised me that such clothing is not worn for granted. I decided to attend in normal dress out of respect," he said.
Raila Odinga died in India on October 15, wile receiving in Kerala.
His body was later taken to his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, where thousands of mourners gathered to pay their final respects.
The burial ceremony, attended by national and regional leaders, was marked by emotional tributes celebrating his decades of public service and political struggle.
McOure’s candid reflections highlight the profound sense of loss that continues to affect ODM loyalists nationwide.
Raila, remembered as a champion of democracy and reform, left a political legacy that continues to shape Kenya’s leadership and public life.