Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga entered the ‘mambo ni matatu’ controversy on Saturday, seizing the moment to utilize Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli as a messenger to convey a message to President William Ruto. This message was in response to Ruto’s recent remarks, which have raised concerns and been widely interpreted as a threat to billionaire industrialist Jaswant Rai.
This notable exchange occurred during their joint appearance at a funeral for a COTU official in Vihiga County on September 2. During his speech, Raila voiced his unease regarding Ruto’s comments, labeling them as irresponsible and lacking the presidential demeanor expected of a leader. Ruto has faced substantial criticism from various quarters for his warning to Rai, who holds significant interests in the sugar sector. Ruto essentially cautioned Rai to stop obstructing reforms or face dire consequences: imprisonment, exile, or even divine judgment.
“If someone powerful gives a person three options, is that good leadership? We do not want to witness such threats. That is careless talk. Atwoli tell your friend to cease. We do not want such talk. We want to move on in peace, love and unity,” Raila stated.
In a light-hearted tone, Raila alluded to Atwoli’s newfound rapport with Ruto and urged the COTU leader to counsel Ruto against making similar provocative statements in the future. Additionally, Raila called on Kenyans to remain vigilant and cautioned against underestimating the seriousness of Ruto’s remarks. He emphasized the importance of establishing robust checks and balances to restrain political leaders and prevent Kenya from descending into chaos.
Before inviting Raila to address the audience, Atwoli expressed his support for Ruto’s resolute stance against corruption, lamenting how this menace has hindered the delivery of essential services to the Kenyan populace. The veteran unionist firmly asserted his refusal to endorse individuals accused of corruption, as he believes it is the primary issue plaguing the country.
“Ruto is saying what Kenyans want to hear. There are so many people engaged in graft and they need such a person to deal with them and we will push him to deal with them. This country is bigger than all of us,” the COTU boss asserted.
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