Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has questioned Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s readiness to run for president, arguing that the lawmaker needs to build a stronger political network before pursuing the country’s top office.
Speaking during a funeral service in Kanduyi, Bungoma County, Atwoli cautioned young politicians against seeking national leadership without adequate preparation and a reliable team to support their ambitions.
The trade union leader also criticised Sifuna’s political engagements, particularly his association with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, whom he accused of using politics to pursue business interests.
“Hao watoto wanaokuja katika siasa, wanafanya siasa ya biashara na itaangusha jamii. Msipochunga wanauza nyinyi wholesale,” Atwoli said.
Atwoli Questions Sifuna’s Association With Gachagua
Atwoli warned that political alliances influenced by personal interests could undermine the communities that politicians claim to represent.
He urged voters to carefully consider political partnerships as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election.
“Juzi mliskia kijana mdogo ambaye sisi tumezaa na mimi nimesema atakuwa kiongozi huko mbele. Anaenda kwa Wamunyoro. Ukipeleka waluhya huko, kabla chakula ifike huko Western itakuwa imeisha. Lazima mfikirie sana ni wapi tunaenda,” Atwoli stated.
His remarks followed a meeting between Gachagua and members of Sifuna’s Linda Mwananchi movement, during which the leaders reportedly discussed their political positions and the possibility of cooperating ahead of the next election.
Gachagua has previously indicated that he could support Sifuna for president if political calculations showed the senator had a stronger chance of challenging President William Ruto.
‘His Time Is Not Now,’ Atwoli Tells Sifuna
Atwoli has previously questioned Sifuna’s presidential ambitions, arguing that the senator needs to establish a formidable political team before embarking on a national campaign.
During a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Western Region aspirants’ engagement on September 5, 2026, the COTU secretary general acknowledged Sifuna’s growing national profile but maintained that he was not yet ready to seek the presidency.
“I recognise all our sons who are making strides in top leadership, the likes of Wetangula and Wycliffe Oparanya. Even if the time is not now, I’ll say to you, the time is not now for Sifuna,” Atwoli said.
He added that presidential aspirants must prepare adequately and assemble a team capable of supporting them throughout a demanding national campaign.
“I must be sincere and honest and tell him, his time is not now. Huwezi kuanza kuenda round kabla hujaprepare ile team unatembea nayo. Ata hamjafika quarter ya safari yenu, mwenzenu anasema anataka presidency. You can see how unprepared they are,” he added.
Atwoli Reaffirms Support for Ruto’s Re-Election
The COTU boss also reaffirmed his support for President William Ruto’s re-election bid, citing the administration’s development record as the basis for backing the Kenya Kwanza government for another term.
His position comes as political leaders and emerging opposition formations begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Sifuna, Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka have featured in discussions about possible opposition cooperation, although the final presidential ticket and the structure of any alliance remain to be determined.
Atwoli’s latest comments add to the growing debate over Sifuna’s presidential ambitions and the political alliances likely to shape Kenya’s next election.
