The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis has clarified reports alleging that he does not see eye to eye with Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga.
Speaking on Wednesday, April 10, Atwoli made it clear that he is still close to the Former Prime Minister.
The trade unionist dismissed claims that there is bad blood between him and Raila following his decision to fully throw his weight behind President William Ruto.
Further Atwoli pointed out that he is linked to Raila through a family tie making it harder for them to be political enemies.
"I’m still close to Raila, Raila is my brother-in-law," he insisted.
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At the same time, Atwoli expressed confidence that Azimio la Umoja leader will clinch the African Union Commission Chairperson position.
Atwoli indicated that Ruto has vigorously campaigned for Raila's candidature which is enough to propel him to victory.
“Raila is a member of ODM but when Ruto got information Raila wanted to become chairman of the African Union, immediately swung into action. He is out without a formal agreement, without a handshake, taking everybody unaware including those in Azimio, ODM and Kenya Kwanza moved fast and supported the move,” he said.
“We now have a proposer, a seconder and supporters on the efforts Willam Ruto has made. He has taken over the whole of West Africa and Central African Republics…you cannot go there and say that because these are French-speaking countries and am a candidate they will vote for me," he added.
Nonetheless, Atwoli remained optimistic that even if Odinga loses the AUC bid, he will still be accepted by Kenyans without any prejudice.
