Atwoli's Response To Reports Of Succeeding Gachagua: I Don't Want

Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli on Wednesday, October 9 snapped back at rumours that he is eyeing the seat of Deputy President amidst Rigathi Gachagua's live impeachment motion in Parliament.

Atwoli, while clarifying the matter via his X account, stated that he was not interested in anything to do with Kenyan politics to the point of contesting a DP position or any other elective position, sticking to what he is known for best, a trade unionist.

He acknowledged that rumours and research were indicating that he would be considered for the job once Gachagua's impeachment is completed.

Francis Atwoli, who is Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions, during an interview on Citizen TV's Jeff Koinange Live show, August 15, 2018. /FILE

According to the veteran trade unionist, the Luhya community which is the second largest ethnic group in the country had known leaders within President William Ruto’s administration who are better placed to become the country's second in command.

"Those people who are busy peddling rumours under some unknown research document, on who should be considered for DP from Western Kenya, should stop and forget such unprocessed thoughts," he urged.

"The luhyas have known leaders, in government, who represent the community ably. I am a trade unionist, period. And I do not desire any other elective or appointive seat. If there is anything coming for the Luhya community we have known political leaders who speak for the community politically and represent us in government. I am just an elder and advisor."

Atwoli was forced to come clean after a section of Kenyans fronted his name for the position even as Kenyans speculated on who is likely to be tapped to replace Gachagua in the event he is impeached.

Interestingly, his name was not mentioned in a recent report from a survey done by Trends and Insights for Africa (TIFA) showing Kenyans' preferences for Ruto's deputy should Gachagua's impeachment be successful via Parliament, and the courts of law.

The poll indicated that 37 percent of Kenyans prefer Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki as the next Deputy President should the impeachment of Gachagua be completed.

It is worth noting that Kindiki was highly considered to be President Ruto's running mate in the run-up to the 2022 general elections, and was said to have won in both the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Electoral College and opinion polls conducted to pick Ruto's running mate. The chance was however handed to Gachagua.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi was ranked second in overall preference for the DP role, receiving support from five per cent of respondents, while Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro came in third, also with five per cent. Other figures considered included Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru at three per cent and Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga at two per cent.

Meanwhile, 33 per cent of respondents admitted that they were unsure who should succeed Gachagua, while four per cent believed President Ruto should have the authority to choose a successor without external influence.