Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU-K) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has alleged that former President Uhuru Kenyatta is to blame for Raila Odinga’s defeat in the 2022 presidential race.
Speaking on Wednesday during an interview on Citizen TV, Atwoli claimed that despite holding state power, Uhuru Kenyatta failed to make a meaningful effort to secure Raila Odinga’s presidency.
He further added that at no point did the former Head of State convene a meeting with Azimio’s top campaign team to strategize on how to secure victory.
“Former President Uhuru Kenyatta was responsible for Raila’s loss in 2022. Uhuru appeared to be supporting Baba but at no point did he convene a meeting with the people who were on the frontline campaigning for Raila,” Atwoli said.
He added: “Even if we were to amend the Constitution to accommodate him, that would not make him a winner. Even if Uhuru were to run in 2027, he would not beat President Ruto. After elections, we must accept that we are defeated.”
The COTU SG also dismissed Jubilee deputy party leader Fred Matiang’i’s Presidential ambitions, warning that it would be impossible to achieve with the backing of Uhuru Kenyatta.
“Uhuru appeared to be supporting Baba, but at no point did he convene a meeting with the people who were on the frontline campaigning for Raila. I now hear he is saying he wants Matiang’i to be President. If Matiang’i is not careful with his own moves, Uhuru will not make him President. If he did not make Raila, how can he make Matiang’i president?”
He stated that Matiang’i is better suited for the role of an enforcer than that of a President, adding that none of President Ruto’s current competitors stand a chance of unseating him in the 2027 elections.
“Those who are planning to run against President Ruto must reassess themselves. Matiang’i is best suited to be an enforcer. Maraga is an old man like me who lives in his own world,” Atwoli stated.
