NAIROBI — Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has cast doubt on former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s political influence, arguing that his failure to decisively back Raila Odinga in the 2022 General Election weakens his ability to shape future presidential success — including that of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i.
Speaking on Citizen TV’s JKLive, Atwoli said Uhuru’s behind-the-scenes support for Raila created uncertainty within the Azimio campaign, leaving key operatives unclear about their direction during the high-stakes contest.
According to Atwoli, Uhuru never openly rallied the campaign team or convened strategy meetings with those working on the ground, a concern previously raised by Suna East MP Junet Mohamed.
He said the absence of visible leadership contributed to confusion within Raila’s camp, particularly over logistics and coordination during the polls.
Atwoli defended Raila against claims that funds meant for polling agents were mismanaged, insisting the ODM leader was transparent and accountable.
Turning to current political realignments, Atwoli questioned the weight of Uhuru’s reported endorsement of Matiang’i, warning that goodwill without grassroots support would not translate into electoral victory.
He argued that if Uhuru could not secure Raila’s win in 2022 — or deliver Jubilee victories even in his own backyard — it would be unrealistic to expect him to single-handedly propel Matiang’i to the presidency.
Atwoli said while Uhuru may have wished Raila success, desire alone was not enough in Kenyan politics, which requires both organisation and political muscle.
On the future of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Atwoli dismissed suggestions that the party was in decline following Raila Odinga’s death, saying it still has the capacity to reorganise and stabilise.
He expressed confidence in the party’s interim leadership, noting that ODM would inevitably experience internal challenges as it adjusts to life without its longtime leader.
Atwoli added that many of the party’s internal differences would likely have been less pronounced had Raila remained at the helm, but insisted the party still has a future if it navigates the transition carefully.
