The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has issued a firm clarification to counter a misleading publication that incorrectly claimed a change in the party’s Youth League leadership. The document, circulated during ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa on November 14, 2025, named activist Kasmuel McOure as the new Youth League President triggering confusion among members and supporters.
In an official statement released on Saturday morning, ODM dismissed the report as false and misleading, reaffirming that Johnmark Ketorah remains the duly appointed President of the ODM Youth League. Ketorah has held the position since his appointment by the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) in 2016.
“The President of the ODM Youth League is Honourable Johnmark Ketorah. Ignore any publication circulating containing misleading information,” the party said.
The clarification comes amid wider leadership adjustments within ODM’s senior ranks, prompting the party to maintain accuracy and consistency in its internal communications.
According to party insiders, the erroneous publication appears to have conflated McOure’s growing visibility within the party’s youth mobilization efforts with formal leadership roles. McOure, who was appointed by ODM leader Raila Odinga in 2024 to support youth and student engagement, remains an active and influential figure but he does not hold the presidency of the Youth League.
A senior ODM official noted that while McOure is a respected voice among the youth, the publication’s claims were inaccurate.
“Kasmuel McOure is a valued member of the party, but he is not the ODM Youth League President. Media outlets must verify information before publication,” the official said.
The party also moved to clear secondary confusion generated by some reports that referenced Benson Musungu. ODM emphasized that no change has been made, and Ketorah remains the legitimate head of the Youth League.
For nearly a decade, Johnmark Ketorah has been central to ODM’s youth agenda, leading voter mobilisation, policy engagement, and nationwide outreach efforts. His role has remained unchanged, and the party stated that he will continue driving key youth-focused initiatives as ODM undergoes broader restructuring.
The Youth League clarification comes just days after the party confirmed major leadership transitions. The NEC recently endorsed: Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga as the new ODM Party Leader, Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Governor Simba Arati, and Senator Geoffrey Osoti as Deputy Party Leaders
ODM indicated that the shifts have prompted heightened public interest and occasional misinformation, making accuracy essential.
The party reiterated its commitment to transparency and stability as it strengthens internal structures and expands youth involvement ahead of upcoming political engagements.
