Atwoli accuses Uhuru of allegedly using Sifuna to divide Luhya votes

NAIROBI, Kenya – Francis Atwoli, Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), has accused Senator Edwin Sifuna of being manipulated by unnamed political forces to weaken Western Kenya's voting bloc and hinder the region's chances of producing a presidential candidate in 2032. Atwoli expressed concerns over Sifuna's growing mobilization efforts in Western Kenya, claiming they were part of a plan to diminish the region's political influence ahead of the 2027 General Election.

"You heard Sifuna telling people not to listen to me," Atwoli said, questioning who was using his son and why he felt compelled to address Western Kenyans. The COTU boss urged Western Kenyans to support President William Ruto's re-election campaign, urging them not to support other presidential candidates. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua responded sharply, challenging Atwoli's attempt to rally the region behind Ruto while questioning Sifuna's political ambitions.

Gachagua called upon Western Kenyans to attend Atwoli's planned December 26 gathering at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega, but to use the event to show their support for Sifuna. Gachagua defended Sifuna's right to run for president, pointing out that the senator was constitutionally allowed to do so. Gachagua also criticized leaders allied with Ruto for attacking Sifuna over his presidential aspirations.

He urged his supporters not to stay silent when the senator was criticized. Gachagua also criticized Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula for their failure to deliver on their promises to Western Kenya, including the construction of 1,000 kilometers of tarmac roads. The December 26 Bukhungu meeting is expected to be a significant test of Atwoli's influence in the region and the competing political ambitions of leaders seeking to shape Western Kenya's political direction.