Atwoli Blames Uhuru for Raila Odinga’s 2022 Loss, Warns Matiang’i to Be Careful Ahead of 2027 Elections

COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli has blamed former president Uhuru Kenyatta for Raila Odinga’s loss in the 2022 presidential election. Speaking to Citizen TV on Wednesday, January 7, Atwoli said Uhuru’s support was mostly symbolic. He claimed it was not enough to secure victory.

Atwoli said Uhuru never met the frontline campaigners who worked hard for Raila. He also hinted that millions promised to fund the campaign may have been withheld. He argued that backing alone does not win elections. Strong coordination, he said, is crucial.

His comments follow ongoing disputes within ODM. Secretary General Edwin Sifuna had blamed Junet Mohamed for mismanaging campaign funds from Uhuru. Atwoli, however, directly pointed to the former president. He said even a constitutional amendment allowing a third term would not guarantee Uhuru a win over President William Ruto.

Atwoli also warned Fred Matiang’i about depending on Uhuru for the 2027 election. “Uhuru said he wants Matiang’i to be president. But he never helped Raila fully. If he didn’t make Raila, how can he make Matiang’i?” Atwoli asked. He stressed that candidates must be careful and plan their moves wisely.

He added that loyalty and active support matter more than words. Money and strategy must reach the ground level. “Without this,” he said, “even powerful endorsements fail.”  Atwoli said future campaigns must learn from past mistakes.

His remarks have sparked renewed debate about loyalty, campaign strategy and ODM’s internal politics. As Kenyans look toward 2027, Atwoli’s warning highlights the importance of action, transparency and clear leadership in winning elections.