Central Organization of Trade Union (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has launched sharp criticism against former President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of re-engaging in active politics to destabilize the current administration.
This follows remarks made by the former president in Kirinyaga County on April 1, 2026, where he encouraged Mount Kenya residents to prioritize unity and remain wary of “sweet-tongued” politicians. He also criticized portions of the clergy for their alleged role in the 2022 general election and urged leaders to abandon tribal politics in favor of national cohesion.
In response, Francis Atwoli, speaking on Sunday during the burial ceremony of Dorothy Baya Mweri – the mother of Kilifi North MP Owen Baya – accused the former president of inciting Kenyans along tribal lines.
Atwoli urged the former leader to retire peacefully, stating, “There is no opposition in Kenya at the moment, and the former President Uhuru Kenyatta should stop inciting Kenyans along tribal lines.” He further claimed that the former president failed to secure a win for Raila Odinga while in power and asserted that President William Ruto remains poised for a landslide reelection in 2027.
“He should remember that he is lazy and he was made president by Ruto, and he also failed to make Raila Odinga president when he still had power; he should retire,” added Atwoli.
What Uhuru Said
During the burial of former Kirinyaga Senator Daniel Karaba at Njegas Primary School, Uhuru Kenyatta revisited the 2022 General Election, where he had supported Raila Odinga’s unsuccessful bid against President William Ruto.
Addressing the gathered crowd, which included various opposition figures, Kenyatta remarked, “I warned you, but it is your own problem. But no worries.”
In a direct critique of political rhetoric, the former president cautioned the public against being misled by empty promises. “Politicians have very sweet tongues… some have honey in their tongues. They can even convince you to surrender your precious lastborn daughter,” he stated. He maintained that true leadership requires honesty, regardless of how difficult the truth may be.
Kenyatta urged Kenyans to remain vigilant as they look toward future elections. He encouraged citizens to prioritize integrity, stating, “Be careful this time round. Take your time and look for leaders who will tell you the truth no matter how hard the situation could be.”
In a rare and pointed critique, Uhuru accused the clergy of misguiding voters during the 2022 General Election. He urged religious leaders to return to their spiritual mandate.
“The Church contributed immensely in misleading the country to head to the wrong direction during the 2022 General Election,” he remarked, adding, “These people want you to lead them in their hearts and spiritually… but in regard to earthly issues like politics, leave it to leaders who understand the murky waters of politics.”
The former president also issued a stern warning against voter manipulation, specifically advising the youth to guard their national identity cards against bribery. He encouraged voters to take any money offered by politicians but to refuse to surrender their documents.
“Do not be manipulated by politicians who are looking forward to pumping your pockets with a few hundreds of shillings in exchange of your vote,” he cautioned. He praised the resilience of the younger generation, noting, “I have seen our Gen Zs are very vibrant and steady. I urge you to remain strong and brave.”
Reflecting on his life after office, Kenyatta shared that he has retreated to his rural home in Ichaweri to reconnect with the public. He noted that “listening to the ground” has revealed a deep public desire for unity. He stressed that national stability depends on leaders of integrity who prioritize service over personal gain.
In a blunt parting shot to the electorate, he placed the responsibility for the country’s trajectory squarely on their shoulders, warning, “If you go astray again this time round, it will be your own problem.”
