COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli has urged politicians campaigning in Western Kenya to conclude their political tours before December 26, saying leaders from the Mulembe Nation will unveil a major political declaration that will chart the community's direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a fundraiser at Mwichina Church of God in Lurambi Constituency on Sunday, Atwoli said the Bukhungu III Declaration, to be made on December 26, will provide political direction for the Luhya community and guide its engagement in national politics.
"If you want to tour Western, do it between now and December 26. After December 26, we will have the Bukhungu III Declaration that will give political direction to the Mulembe Nation," he said.
Atwoli called on the Luhya community to remain united behind President William Ruto, arguing that the region has a significant stake in the current administration through leaders serving in government.
He cautioned residents against following leaders calling on the community to join the opposition, saying doing so would undermine the region's political influence and development interests.
The veteran trade unionist said the Kenya Kwanza administration had invested billions of shillings in development projects across Western Kenya, citing road infrastructure and the ongoing upgrade of Bukhungu Stadium among projects that have benefited the region.
Atwoli also dismissed suggestions that the 2027 elections would be determined solely by young voters backing youthful leaders. He argued that every region has its own Generation Z population, but maintained that young people would ultimately be guided by the political direction taken by their communities' elders.
"Every community has its own Gen Z. Those from Nyanza will follow their leaders, those from Rift Valley will follow their leaders, and those from Western will follow the direction of their leaders," he said.
He urged the Mulembe Nation to support President Ruto's bid for a second and final term in office, saying the community should then unite behind one of its own for the presidency after Ruto completes his constitutional tenure.
"We should support William Ruto's second term. After he completes his term, the Mulembe Nation will have an opportunity to present one of its own for the presidency," Atwoli said.
Atwoli also disclosed that he intends to meet former President Uhuru Kenyatta and advise him against trusting former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
He alleged that Gachagua frustrated Kenyatta during his tenure as Deputy President and therefore should not be relied upon politically.
"We will talk to Uhuru and tell him not to trust Gachagua. He frustrated him while serving as Deputy President. He cannot be trusted," Atwoli claimed.
The Bukhungu III Declaration is expected to be announced on December 26 and, according to Atwoli, will outline the Mulembe Nation's political position and strategy as campaigns for the 2027 General Election begin to gather momentum.
