Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has pushed back against remarks by COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli, who questioned his financial preparedness to run for the presidency in 2027.
Atwoli had on Wednesday advised Omtatah to evaluate his budget and resources before pursuing the country’s top seat, suggesting that financial strength is critical in a presidential campaign.
“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 remarked. “When you’re running for a political position, you must have saved. The world over, nobody wants to be associated with a poor person.”
In a firm response, Omtatah argued that leadership should be defined by vision, integrity, and the dedication to serve, rather than wealth or privilege.
“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.”
The exchange comes days after Omtatah announced his intention to vie for the presidency and unveiled a 10-member presidential exploratory committee. He emphasized his campaign’s focus on implementing the 2010 Constitution and strengthening the rule of law.
“Our agenda is centred on the total implementation of the Constitution. It’s a powerful tool for modernising this country,” he noted. “Specific chapters, particularly on public finances, provide clear guidance, but political will has been missing, making the Constitution appear ineffective.”
Omtatah stated that his campaign would be driven by ideas and meaningful engagement with Kenyans rather than financial muscle.
“We don’t have money to burn, but we have ideas and a solid programme. Our ideas resonate with the people, and we have a history of standing up for what is right,” he said.
Atwoli, however, dismissed Omtatah’s ambitions, suggesting he should focus on consolidating regional leadership and building alliances with influential leaders from Western Kenya.
“Okiya must bring the Western leadership together,” Atwoli said during an interview on Citizen TV. “He must consult people like Amos Wako, move to Bungoma to engage Moses Wetang’ula, and seek guidance from Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi. From there, let him form a caucus, and we will advise him on his chances.”
Atwoli expressed confidence in President William Ruto’s re-election in 2027, citing his strategic political appointments and regional support.
“With the trajectory Ruto is taking, he will be the President at 10 a.m. in 2027,” Atwoli predicted.
Omtatah, however, remains steadfast, insisting that his vision for a people-driven campaign will inspire change and offer an alternative path for Kenya’s future.
