- COTU General Secretary Francis Atwoli told Okiya Omtatah that he should have consulted Western leaders before announcing his presidential bid.
- He also questioned whether Omtatah is financially ready to fund his political goals or whether he will rely on well-wishers
- Omtatah echoed Atwoli's sentiments, announcing his intention to show that leadership is defined by vision, not wealth.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has responded to the General Secretary of the Union of Trade Unions (COTU) Francis Atwoli for ignoring his presidential ambition.
Source: Facebook
What did Atwoli say about Omtatah running?
Atwoli had said that Omtatah should focus on uniting the Western region before considering running for the presidency.
Speaking to Citizen TV on Wednesday, November 27, the trade union activist added that Omtatah should consult with leaders in the Western region such as Amos Wako, Moses Wetang'ula, and Stay Mudavadi to get guidance instead of relying on research to evaluate its capabilities.
“You can do thousands of studies, but some key elements of political success are there. He must be told to do ABCD…” Atwoli said.
He added that if Omtatah had consulted him before announcing his presidential bid, he would have asked about the amount of money in his campaign budget.
The trade union activist said his question would focus on whether Omtatah has enough money for his campaign or whether he will rely on supporters to fund it.
“When you show up for a political position. The first thing you must have saved. No one wants to be associated with a poor person,” Atwoli said.
How did Omtatah answer Atwoli?
Omtatah responded to Atwoli's comments about his presidential bid on his X account, saying that wealth or privilege is not the basis of any true movement for change.
The senator of kiss he added that leadership is defined by vision, integrity, and dedication to serve the people.
“Leadership is about vision…Ordinary Kenyans, not wealth or privilege, are the backbone of any true movement for change. We will prove that a people-led campaign can inspire hope and deliver a better future for all,” his statement read. in part.
Did Atwoli propose the removal of presidential term limits?
Earlier, Atwoli proposed removing the presidential term limit, saying that the current system is problematic.
He related the ongoing challenges in the country to the five-year presidential term limit.
The trade unionist said that removing the term limit would promote good governance, claiming the current restrictions are hindering long-term progress.
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Source: TUKO.co.ke
