Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has challenged Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s emerging presidential ambitions, arguing that the lawmaker needs to gain more political experience and build wider national structures before seeking Kenya’s top office.
Speaking on Citizen TV’s Sunday Live on September 20, 2026, Atwoli said Sifuna, who is serving his first term as senator, should go through what he described as different stages of political leadership before pursuing the presidency.
“Sifuna, one-term Senator you want to become a president? Not in Africa… You must suffer looking for leadership,” Atwoli said.
He argued that an aspiring president must understand the economy, the challenges facing ordinary Kenyans and the demands of political leadership beyond attracting crowds at rallies.
Atwoli also questioned whether the large crowds attending Sifuna’s Linda Mwananchi rallies would necessarily translate into votes in a presidential election.
He cited historical politicians, including Kenneth Matiba and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, as examples of leaders who commanded significant public support but did not ultimately become president.
The COTU boss further argued that a presidential campaign requires extensive political structures and networks across the country, including support from political leaders, county governments and the business community.
“My friend, you can’t win an election without structures and strategy,” Atwoli said.
He also criticised Sifuna’s grassroots fundraising strategy, particularly the collection of small contributions during Linda Mwananchi activities.
“Going to the markets with buckets, taking five shillings from the old women… That money cannot make you a president in Kenya,” Atwoli said, arguing that Sifuna was attempting to apply a fundraising model associated with former US President Barack Obama to Kenya.
Atwoli contrasted the two political systems, saying Kenya has its own political culture and traditions.
Sifuna has defended the grassroots fundraising model, saying the movement would rely on contributions from ordinary Kenyans rather than wealthy political financiers.
Despite his criticism, Atwoli acknowledged Sifuna’s potential in national politics and described him as a future leader.
“For now, no. Capital N-O!” Atwoli said when asked whether Sifuna was ready for the presidency, while adding that he could support the senator in other ways in future.
Sifuna has continued his nationwide Linda Mwananchi mobilisation and has signalled his intention to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election, while calling for unity among opposition leaders.
