Former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Photo/Courtesy
COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli has questioned the political clout of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, casting doubt on his ability to back former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i for the presidency in 2027.
Speaking on Wednesday night during an interview on Citizen TV, Atwoli reflected on Uhuru’s role in the 2022 elections, arguing that his support for Raila Odinga lacked clear leadership and direction on the ground.
“Uhuru appeared to be supporting Baba, but at no point did he convene a meeting with the people who were on the frontline campaigning for Raila,” Atwoli said.
“Maybe he was meeting Baba with about two or three people, but openly, he neither came out to see the brigade supporting Raila nor gave us a sense of direction.”
Atwoli warned that Matiang’i, who has expressed his intention to run for president and currently serves as Jubilee’s deputy party leader, should not rely solely on Uhuru’s backing.
“I now hear he is saying he wants Matiang’i to be President,” Atwoli added. “If Matiang’i is not careful with his own moves, Uhuru will not make him the President. If he didn’t make Raila, how can he make Matiang’i to be a president?”
The remarks come amid growing speculation over Jubilee’s strategy as the party seeks to rebuild its influence ahead of 2027.
Atwoli’s comments highlight ongoing debate about the limits of former presidents’ influence and the importance of candidates forging independent political paths.
Matiang’i’s rising profile has attracted attention, but Atwoli’s warning suggests that the road to State House will require more than endorsements from party elders.