NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 8 — Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has accused former President Uhuru Kenyatta of playing a major role in Raila Odinga’s defeat in the 2022 General Election.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV on Wednesday night, Atwoli said Uhuru publicly endorsed Raila but failed to actively mobilise and coordinate the Azimio campaign machinery. According to Atwoli, that lack of commitment weakened the coalition and cost Raila the presidency.
“Former President Uhuru Kenyatta was responsible for Raila’s loss in 2022,” Atwoli said. “Even if we amended the Constitution to accommodate him, that would not make Raila a winner.”
Atwoli Questions Uhuru’s Campaign Commitment
The outspoken trade unionist argued that Uhuru did not bring together key leaders who were campaigning for Raila under the Azimio la Umoja banner.
According to Atwoli, the former president appeared supportive but failed to convene meetings or give strategic direction to the campaign teams on the ground.
“Uhuru looked like he supported Baba, but he never gathered the people who were on the frontline,” Atwoli said. “Leadership requires action, not symbolism.”
Warning Issued to Fred Matiang’i
Atwoli also issued a sharp warning to former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, who was recently named Deputy Party Leader of the Jubilee Party and has declared interest in the 2027 presidential race.
Matiang enjoys the backing of Uhuru Kenyatta.
“If Matiang’i is not careful, Uhuru will not make him president,” Atwoli warned. “If he failed to make Raila president, how will he make Matiang’i president?”
His remarks cast doubt on Uhuru’s political influence ahead of the 2027 General Election.
ODM Internal Wrangles Deepen
Atwoli’s comments come as the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) grapples with growing internal divisions. The rift centres on Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and other leaders. Sifuna’s team critisizes the broad-based government, despite ODM being part of it.
ODM party leader Oburu Odinga met Sifuna in Nairobi on Wednesday to calm tensions and reinforce party unity.
In a statement, Oburu said the meeting focused on dialogue, cohesion, and respect for differing opinions within the party.
Oburu Defends Sifuna
Oburu strongly defended the Nairobi Senator, describing him as a principled leader whose commitment to democratic values strengthens ODM.
He dismissed calls to silence or remove Sifuna. He stressed that free expression and internal debate remain core pillars of the party.
