Raila-Atwoli Face-Off: ODM Leader Accuses COTU Boss Of Neglecting Kenyan Workers

• Azimio leader Raila Odinga and COTU-K secretary-general Francis Atwoli shared a podium for the first time since Atwoli's allegiance shift to Kenya Kwanza
• Atwoli previously supported Raila's presidential bid but changed course after Raila's defeat in the 2022 General Election
• Raila expressed concerns about trade unions aligning with the government, emphasising the importance of distinct roles for the government, employers, and workers
• Atwoli said he hadn't abandoned workers and was working to secure positions for them while criticising opposition figures without offices for their protest strategies

Vihiga - Azimio leader Raila Odinga and Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU-K) secretary general Francis Atwoli shared a podium for the first time since he shifted allegiance.

Atwoli championed Raila's presidency in the lead-up to the 2022 General Election but made an instant U-turn after Raila's defeat.

The two leaders met at the burial of COTU chairman Rajabu Mwondi at Kapchemugung Secondary School in Vihiga, where Raila unleashed a tirade against the veteran trade unionist.

Raila questioned who would fight for Kenyan workers if the trade unions aligned with the national government.

He pointed out that the government, employers and workers were distinct, and each had a role to play in the country.

"But now, if the workers' union aligns with the government, there will be a problem. There are usually three sides: the workers, the government, and the employers. Each has their own stance. However, with this worsening situation, it means that many Kenyans have cried out more about the rising cost of living," he said.

What was Atwoli's response to Raila?

Not to take the chance lying down, Atwoli took on Raila, questioning why he was still in denial after the polls.

Atwoli explained that he had not abandoned workers in the country but had retreated to his office, unlike most opposition bigwigs.

He stated that most of them did not have offices and hence had time for protests, claiming he was lobbying for them to get positions.

"I went back to the office. And the truth of the matter is that they don't have an office, and I am the one trying to find them an office. Let's speak the truth. When it comes to protests, you wonder what the end goal is. I haven't abandoned. They cannot go on the road. On the road, what do you want to achieve? How will you remove Ruto," Awoli said.

Atwoli asks Ruto to find job for Raila

In a separate report, the COTU boss asked Ruto to get Raila a job that fits him as a national leader.

Atwoli noted that Raila should be recognised as a national leader and given a job perhaps similar to the one he held at the African Union.

He suggested that if an international job is not found, the president should consider appointing him as board chairman of a government agency.

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Raila Odinga.

Raila-Atwoli Face-Off: ODM Leader Accuses COTU Boss of Neglecting Kenyan Workers - Tuko.co.ke

Raila-Atwoli Face-Off: ODM Leader Accuses COTU Boss of Neglecting Kenyan Workers - Tuko.co.ke