Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli has thrown his weight behind President William Ruto's "Tutam" narrative, emphasizing the need for Kenyans to endure and support the current administration through its full term.
The "Tutam" slogan, which has gained traction in recent months, essentially translates to a call for patience and continuity, urging citizens to "bear with" the president for the constitutionally mandated 10-year period, despite ongoing challenges.
Atwoli, a veteran labor leader known for his outspoken views, dismissed opposition figures and narratives opposing Ruto, including the emerging "Wantam" counter-slogan that advocates for change or removal.
During the interview, he criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for flip-flopping on policies like the bottom-up economic model, which Atwoli himself continues to endorse as part of Ruto's vision.
He went further, blaming former President Uhuru Kenyatta for Raila Odinga's 2022 election loss, claiming Uhuru had all the resources at his disposal but failed to deliver.
"Uhuru Kenyatta had the instruments of power, he had everything to make Raila president, but he failed," Atwoli stated, adding that even if Uhuru were to run again in 2027 hypothetically he would not defeat Ruto.
The COTU boss's support for the "Tutam" narrative comes amid heightened political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections. Proponents of "Tutam" argue it promotes stability and resignation to the realities of governance, contrasting with more aggressive calls for change.
Atwoli echoed this sentiment, warning that figures like former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, rumored to have Uhuru's backing for a presidential bid, would face miserable failure.
"Uhuru will fail you miserably," he told Matiang'i indirectly, underscoring his belief in Ruto's unassailable position.
In a revealing segment, Atwoli delved into what he would prioritize if he were in power, drawing from his decades of experience in labor advocacy.
He stressed the importance of protecting workers' rights and ensuring initiatives like the affordable housing levy remain focused on their intended purpose providing decent homes for Kenyans without diversion to other projects.
"If I were leading, I would safeguard workers' contributions and push for unity in the labor sector," Atwoli said, referencing his recent endorsement by 42 union leaders for his re-election as COTU secretary-general in August 2026.
He also dismissed claims of disunity in Western Kenya's Mulembe nation, calling them media propaganda, and affirmed the region's alignment with Ruto's government for development.
RUTO WILL LEAVE AFTER HIS TUTAMS. BUT IF IT WER ME, I WOULD CHANGE THIS CONSTITUTION.
— Francis Atwoli (@AtwoliEBs) January 8, 2026
William Ruto is ready to leave after 10 years, he respects the Constitution. These changes that William is trying to put in place, these require a very brave person. You have heard him when he… pic.twitter.com/XwfHjXWH8I
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