Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has criticized former President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of failing to deliver for Raila Amolo Odinga in the 2022 presidential election and warning politicians like Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna against relying on him for their political futures.
Speaking recently, Atwoli did not mince words as he recounted what he described as Uhuru’s unfulfilled promises during the Azimio la Umoja campaign.
He claimed that Uhuru had pledged KSh 400 million to support polling agents for Raila Odinga but failed to deliver, leaving the campaign without adequate ground support.
“We lost the election because he promised Raila KSh 400 million for agents, yet we did not have agents. He did not hold a single rally to help Raila become president,” Atwoli stated.
COTU boss went further, directly addressing reports of Uhuru’s growing association with Sifuna and other Western Kenya leaders. He rhetorically question that has since dominated political conversations:“ If he did not help Raila Odinga become president, will he
Atwoli warned Western Kenya politicians against associating with the retired President, arguing that Uhuru’s track record in the 2022 polls disqualifies him as a reliable political sponsor or mentor. He urged unity in the region and strong turnout in the 2027 General Election.
The remarks come amid escalating tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Sifuna and other party figures have been vocal critics of certain government policies, including aspects of the broad-based administration, reopening old wounds from the 2022 campaign financing saga.
Earlier this year, Sifuna publicly thanked Uhuru for his financial and political support to Raila’s bid particularly noting strong performance in Mt. Kenya while accusing others of mismanaging funds.
Atwoli’s intervention appears aimed at reinforcing loyalty to Raila’s political legacy while cautioning younger leaders against what he sees as opportunistic alliances.
The veteran unionist has previously downplayed Sifuna’s influence and ambitions, at times questioning whether a young man like him could lead the country.
