COTU Boss Francis Atwoli. Photo/Courtesy
COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli has admitted he misjudged President William Ruto’s affordable housing initiative, describing a dramatic shift in his stance after seeing completed projects firsthand.
Atwoli, who had previously voiced opposition to the scheme, revealed during a Citizen TV interview that he had been influenced by workers and other stakeholders to question the program’s value.
“I was one of the people who had been convinced by workers and other interested parties to oppose affordable housing,” he said.
His perspective changed after visiting Kisumu and Kakamega, where he observed the tangible impact of the new homes on local communities.
“I couldn’t believe it; the new affordable house has changed the whole scenario,” Atwoli said, noting that the developments had transformed not just the skyline but also the lives of ordinary Kenyans.
The labor leader emphasized that such bold initiatives require courageous leadership, praising Ruto for implementing the program despite initial skepticism.
“This country requires a brave leader,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of vision and decisiveness in driving national development.
Atwoli’s public acknowledgment of his earlier mistake marks a rare reversal from a senior labor figure, whose critiques have historically carried weight with workers and civil society.
By changing his tune, Atwoli signals a growing recognition among critics that the government’s housing program is not just ambitious but also delivering measurable benefits to citizens.