Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has sent a warning to Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna over his reported plans to contest the presidency in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a recent political engagement, Atwoli acknowledged Sifuna’s growing presence in national politics but maintained that, in his view, the senator’s time to seek the country’s top office has not yet arrived.
Atwoli argued that Sifuna still has a long political journey ahead of him and should first build the experience, structures and networks required for a presidential campaign.
“The time is not now for Edwin Sifuna,” Atwoli was quoted as saying, while also acknowledging that the young politician could have a future in national leadership.
The COTU boss further questioned whether Sifuna had adequately prepared a political team capable of taking him through a national presidential campaign. According to Atwoli, seeking the presidency requires more than popularity at political rallies, arguing that an aspirant needs strong structures and a clear strategy.
Atwoli has also previously argued that Sifuna needs to gain more experience in leadership and understand the economic and social challenges facing Kenyans before seeking the presidency.
His remarks come at a time when Sifuna has continued to signal his intention to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 presidential race.
Sifuna has been using his Linda Mwananchi movement to mobilise supporters across different parts of the country and has publicly spoken about taking up a bigger political role. He has also called for opposition leaders to work together ahead of the 2027 elections.
Atwoli, however, maintains that Sifuna still has time to pursue the presidency in the future, suggesting that the senator should first concentrate on building his political experience and national networks.
The remarks have added another layer to the growing debate surrounding Sifuna’s 2027 ambitions, with the Nairobi senator continuing to present himself as part of a new generation of leaders while established political figures question whether he is ready for the presidency.
The video of Atwoli making the remarks has since attracted attention online, with Kenyans closely following the developing political contest ahead of the 2027 General Election.