EMMANUEL WEKESA
The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has issued strong statements criticizing former President Uhuru Kenyatta, especially concerning the support—or lack thereof—during Raila Odinga's 2022 presidential campaign.
Accusations Against Uhuru Kenyatta
Atwoli specifically accused Uhuru of neglecting to back Raila Odinga as planned and promised, particularly highlighting that Odinga did not have the campaign agents at polling stations due to a lack of support. He claimed that Uhuru had assured the party of providing Ksh.400 million for agents, which was not delivered, adversely affecting Raila's chances.
"When you incite people that you refused, while you were in office, to help them... but no one from your side was there for Raila's support," Atwoli remarked, emphasizing the perceived betrayal.
This criticism exposes ongoing tensions within the ODM and reflects broader disputes over campaign funds and political alliance support, which are crucial in determining electoral success.
Furthermore, Atwoli expressed the need for unity among leaders from Western Kenya and urged them to come together to mobilize support for the upcoming elections, stressing the importance of collective action in political campaigns.
Recent conflicts within ODM have also revolved around allegations of misappropriated campaign funds, with senior officials like Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Junet Mohamed trading accusations. Sifuna publicly thanked Uhuru for his financial backing, which he credited with Raila’s strong performance in the Mt. Kenya region. This controversy highlights the complex interplay of support, funds, and political loyalty amidst election preparations.
As Kenya approaches its next general election, these internal disputes and accusations cast a shadow over ODM's unity and strategy, with key leaders calling for transparency and solidarity to ensure electoral success.
