Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has hit back at COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli following remarks questioning his preparedness to run for the presidency in 2027.
Speaking during an interview, Atwoli criticised Omtatah’s financial capacity, advising him to assess his resources before pursuing the country’s top seat. “If he came to me, I would tell him, ‘Let me see your budget. Are you going to depend on well-wishers, or what do you have as a person?’” Atwoli said, adding, “When you're running for a political position, you must have savings. Globally, no one associates with a poor person.”
In response, Omtatah dismissed the notion that wealth is a prerequisite for leadership, emphasizing that vision, integrity, and a commitment to serve are the true pillars of leadership.
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“Ordinary Kenyans, not wealth or privilege, are the backbone of any true movement for change,” Omtatah said. “We will demonstrate that a people-powered campaign can inspire hope and deliver a brighter future for all.”
On Wednesday, Omtatah officially declared his intention to run for president in 2027, unveiling a 10-member presidential exploratory committee to spearhead his campaign. His focus, he said, would be on the rule of law and the full implementation of the 2010 Constitution.
“Our agenda is centred on the total implementation of the Constitution, which is a powerful tool for modernising this country,” Omtatah explained. “Key chapters, especially on public finances, offer clear guidance, but political will has been lacking, making the Constitution seem ineffective.”
He emphasized that his campaign would not rely on significant financial resources but instead prioritize engaging Kenyans in meaningful discussions. “We don’t have money to burn, but we have ideas and a solid programme. Our history of standing for what is right resonates with the people,” he said.
Atwoli, however, remained skeptical of Omtatah’s bid. Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, Atwoli advised the Senator to build alliances with regional leaders and ensure financial readiness. “Okiyah must unite the Western leadership. He should consult leaders like Amos Wako, Moses Wetang’ula, and Musalia Mudavadi. From there, he can form a caucus, and we can evaluate his chances,” Atwoli said.
Atwoli also expressed confidence in President William Ruto’s re-election in 2027, citing his strategic political appointments and regional backing. “With the trajectory Ruto is on, he will be the President by 10 am in 2027,” he asserted.
