Central Organisation of Trade Unions Secretary General Francis Atwoli has downplayed the significance of the Linda Mwananchi rally held at Jacaranda Grounds in Nairobi on September 13. He described the event as a "passing cloud" and emphasized that the large crowd in attendance should not be taken as an indication of the movement's long-term political strength. The rally was attended by several leaders, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
The Linda Mwananchi movement has been engaging in grassroots mobilisation activities as opposition leaders position themselves for the 2027 General Election. Atwoli's comments come as the movement continues to gain traction, with thousands of supporters attending the Jacaranda rally. The National Police Service described the gathering as orderly and conducted within the law. Atwoli made these remarks during Citizen TV's Sunday Live show.
Atwoli also reflected on the 2022 General Election, in which President William Ruto defeated Raila Odinga, the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition presidential candidate. Atwoli attributed Ruto's victory to a highly constituted technical team that helped analyse political numbers and determine suitable strategies. He noted that Ruto's team was instrumental in assessing political numbers and determining who was suitable for different positions.
According to Atwoli, President Ruto is a professional in his approach to politics, driven by a high level of professionalism in his work. Atwoli stated that Ruto does not rely on guesswork, but rather on a well-planned strategy. He also noted that Ruto has a strong team in place, including permanent secretaries who are busy calculating and assessing who is suited for different positions.
When asked about Ruto's possible running mate for the 2027 election, Atwoli said he could not speak on the President's behalf. However, he maintained that Ruto has the numbers to make a strong bid for re-election. Atwoli also hinted that the political landscape could change in the months leading up to the next General Election.
Atwoli pointed to a planned meeting in Bukhungu on December 26, which he expected to have significant implications for Western Kenya politics. He stated that the meeting, dubbed "Bukhungu 3," would help to solidify support in the region. Atwoli's comments come days after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also described Linda Mwananchi as a "passing cloud," questioning its policy agenda.
The Linda Mwananchi movement continues to mobilise supporters, with Senator Edwin Sifuna presenting it as part of wider opposition efforts ahead of the 2027 election. Meanwhile, Sifuna is set to unveil his own party on October 1. Atwoli's remarks are likely to be seen as a challenge to the movement's growing popularity.
Key points
- Atwoli dismisses Linda Mwananchi rally as 'passing cloud'
- Ruto's 2022 election victory attributed to technical team
- Atwoli hints at changing political landscape ahead of 2027 election
