Amidst high octane politics that have seen COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli subjected into criticism by a team allied to DP William Ruto, a US-based activist has come into the defense of the trade unionist.
Mr Ombori Monari, who chairs the Abagusii community living in the US, says Mr Atwoli's character and wisdom should not be underrated at whatever cost, adding that Rift Valley leaders should respect elders.
"I have heard some MP from Rift Valley threatening to block Francis Atwoli from stepping into Kericho. He doesn't even know Ruto needs other communities to ascend into power.
"Atwoli is a respected leader not only in Luhya land but also across the country. How will you go to hospital backyard to look for votes? Time has come for some people to respect elders like Atwoli. Doing so isn't a difficult task," he said.
In the recent weeks, Atwoli has hinted that Dr William Ruto will not be on ballot box, remarks which angered sections of DP Ruto's supporters. He has been accused of dividing the country.
Former Kakamega Senator Bonnie Khalwale hit back at Atwoli, accusing him of having little influence in Kenya's political terrains.
"Atwoli cannot purport to undermine the DP. He's not influential and knows nothing about politics. When that time comes, we shall handle him appropriately," he said.
In the last 17 months, Dr Ruto has toured Kisii and Nyamira Counties, making a record 20 trips. Mr Monari, a key influencer in diaspora, has often maintained that Ruto cannot score from the two counties.
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