Atwoli Questions Sifuna’s 2027 Presidential Ambitions: “Presidents Emerge From Systems, Not Activism”
By Jeff Kizzilah Digital Editor
NAIROBI, Kenya — COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli has questioned Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s readiness to pursue the presidency in the 2027 General Election, arguing that presidential leadership requires experience, political structures and established national networks.
Speaking on Citizen TV, Atwoli said political leaders who rise to the presidency in Africa generally emerge from established political systems rather than activism alone.
“There is no activist in Africa who has become a president,” Atwoli said, arguing that those who take over governments understand governance, political systems and have networks capable of mobilising support.
Atwoli further questioned Sifuna’s political networks within government and whether his growing popularity and grassroots mobilisation could translate into a nationwide presidential campaign.
The COTU boss has repeatedly maintained that Sifuna is a potential future national leader but that he needs more political experience before seeking the country’s top office.
“Sifuna, one-term Senator you want to become a president? Not in Africa,” Atwoli said, adding that Sifuna should go through different stages of leadership and gain a deeper understanding of the economy and challenges facing Kenyans.
Atwoli also pointed to the importance of political structures and strategy, arguing that presidential campaigns require extensive national networks involving political leaders, county governments, business communities and other stakeholders.
Sifuna has continued to build the Linda Mwananchi movement and has indicated his interest in the 2027 presidential contest, making his political activities a growing subject of debate ahead of the General Election.
Atwoli’s remarks have therefore added another layer to the debate over whether Sifuna’s grassroots mobilisation can develop into a national presidential campaign.
