Central Organisation of Trade Unions Secretary General Francis Atwoli has criticised Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna's grassroots fundraising approach, saying small contributions from markets cannot finance a successful presidential campaign. Atwoli made the comments during Citizen TV's Sunday Live show. He emphasised the importance of political structures and strategy for anyone seeking the presidency. Atwoli's remarks have sparked debate about Sifuna's presidential ambitions ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Atwoli criticised Sifuna's fundraising activities, which involve collecting small contributions from members of the public during Linda Mwananchi mobilisation activities. He said collecting Sh5 from old women in markets is not a viable way to fund a presidential campaign in Kenya. Atwoli questioned the effectiveness of Sifuna's strategy, saying it is not suitable for the Kenyan political landscape. He also drew comparisons with the fundraising approach of former US President Barack Obama.
Atwoli said Sifuna's approach is not applicable to Kenya, citing cultural and traditional differences. He warned Sifuna that attending local markets to collect donations would not translate into a presidential victory. Atwoli's comments come as Sifuna continues with his Linda Mwananchi grassroots mobilisation efforts. Sifuna has defended his approach, saying it relies on contributions from ordinary Kenyans rather than wealthy political financiers.
Sifuna previously said he preferred receiving small contributions from many Kenyans rather than relying on a single wealthy financier. During a Linda Mwananchi rally in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia county, in July, residents contributed small amounts to the movement. Atwoli has previously advised Sifuna to focus on building a political team before pursuing a national campaign.
Atwoli has told Sifuna that his time to seek the presidency has not yet come. He urged Sifuna to be patient and build his political team before pursuing a national campaign. Atwoli said it was essential to be honest with Sifuna about the challenges ahead rather than encouraging him to pursue an ambition for which he may not be adequately prepared.
The disagreement over campaign financing has become part of the wider debate surrounding Sifuna's presidential ambitions. Atwoli's comments reflect his concerns about Sifuna's readiness for a national campaign. Sifuna, meanwhile, has continued with his Linda Mwananchi grassroots mobilisation efforts, including rallies and engagements with supporters across the country.
Atwoli's advice to Sifuna reflects his experience as a veteran politician and trade unionist. As the debate surrounding Sifuna's presidential ambitions continues, it remains to be seen how his campaign will unfold. Key to the discussion is the role of grassroots mobilisation and the importance of financial backing in Kenyan politics.
Key points
- Atwoli says small market donations can't finance successful presidential campaign
- Sifuna's fundraising strategy differs from Atwoli's approach
- Atwoli advises Sifuna to focus on building a political team before pursuing a national campaign
