Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli has accused former President Uhuru Kenyatta of attempting to divide the Western region by allegedly supporting Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking in Khwisero during an inspection of a Level Four hospital currently under construction, Atwoli claimed that Kenyatta’s alleged support for Sifuna would not guarantee hin victory in the presidential race.

Atwoli drew comparisons with the 2022 General Election, arguing that Kenyatta’s support for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga did not result in an election victory and predicting a similar outcome if Sifuna were to seek the presidency.

Atwoli Calls for Western Kenya Unity

Atwoli urged members of the Mulembe community to remain united and vigilant against what he described as attempts to create political divisions in the region ahead of the 2027 polls.

He recalled the 2022 Azimio campaign, claiming that Kenyatta had promised Ksh 400 million to facilitate election agents but failed to deliver the funds.

According to Atwoli, the alleged support for Sifuna is intended to divide the Western Kenya voting bloc rather than advance the community’s political interests.

Other leaders present also called for unity, peace and solidarity, arguing that political differences should not be allowed to create divisions among residents.

Uhuru Denies Return to Active Politics

Atwoli’s remarks come after Kenyatta dismissed speculation that he intends to return to active politics.

Speaking on Sunday during the annual memorial service for former Vice-President Michael Kijana Wamalwa in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, the former president said he was not interested in seeking any political position and rejected suggestions that he was acting as a political sponsor.

Kenyatta also called on political leaders to allow their rivals to hold rallies freely and concentrate on presenting their policies and manifestos to voters ahead of the 2027 election.

Meanwhile Sifuna has rejected allegations that Kenyatta is financing opposition activities against President William Ruto’s administration.

Ruto and some of his allies have previously accused the former president of financially supporting opposition figures, including Sifuna and presidential hopeful Fred Matiang’i ahead of the 2027 contest.

Sifuna, however, has yet to publicly declare whether he intends to contest the presidency.