Central Organization of Trade Unions Secretary General Francis Atwoli has made allegations against Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, claiming he is being used by unnamed political forces to undermine Western Kenya's chances of producing a presidential candidate in 2032. Atwoli expressed concerns over Sifuna's growing mobilisation in Western Kenya, suggesting it may be part of a scheme to weaken the region's political bargaining power ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Atwoli questioned Sifuna's political intentions, citing his recent comments telling people from Western Kenya not to listen to him, while also inviting them to attend a meeting in Kakamega to declare support for him. The COTU boss warned that Sifuna's actions could lead to the fragmentation of Western Kenya's votes, preventing the region from rallying behind one of its own in the 2032 presidential race.
Atwoli further urged Western Kenya residents to support President William Ruto's re-election bid, cautioning them against backing alternative presidential candidates. He emphasized the importance of the region's votes in the upcoming election, stating that they should not allow Ruto to be re-elected without the support of Western Kenya.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua responded sharply to Atwoli's remarks, challenging the trade unionist's attempt to rally the region behind Ruto while questioning Sifuna's political ambitions. Gachagua urged Western Kenya residents to attend Atwoli's planned December 26 gathering at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega but use the occasion to demonstrate their support for Sifuna.
Gachagua defended Sifuna's right to pursue the presidency, arguing that the senator was constitutionally entitled to seek the country's top office. He also questioned why leaders allied to Ruto were attacking Sifuna over his political ambitions, challenging his supporters not to remain silent when the senator was criticised.
The December 26 Bukhungu meeting is expected to provide a major test of Atwoli's influence in the region and the competing political ambitions of leaders seeking to shape Western Kenya's political direction. Gachagua also turned his criticism towards Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, questioning what they had delivered to Western Kenya despite their political association with the President.
Gachagua challenged Mudavadi and Wetang'ula to account for promises made to the region, including a pledge to construct 1,000 kilometres of tarmac roads. The developments have set the stage for a showdown between Atwoli and Sifuna, with the outcome likely to have significant implications for Western Kenya's political landscape.
Key points
- Atwoli accuses Sifuna of being used to divide Western Kenya's voting bloc.
- Gachagua defends Sifuna's right to pursue the presidency.
- The December 26 Bukhungu meeting will test Atwoli's influence in the region.
