By Felicia Violet
The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli has alleged that key government institutions, including the Office of the President, Judiciary, Parliament, National Security Intelligence Service (NSIS), and the country’s security apparatus, are under attack.
Atwoli claimed that President William Ruto’s former allies are behind what he termed as an orchestrated assault on these institutions. He stated, “They have put nails on the President’s seat; he can’t sit. This political gang is hell-bent on bringing the nation down.”
Addressing mourners in Khwisero today, Atwoli accused unnamed individuals of plotting to remove Chief Justice Martha Koome, Justice Ouko, and the entire judiciary team, asserting that their agenda is driven by ulterior motives. “All the judiciary cannot be corrupt. They want them out. Our son, Renson Ingonga, the first Luhya to hold the position of Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) from Kakamega, is under attack. NSIS Director General Noordin Haji is also being targeted to weaken our security apparatus,” he said.
Atwoli further alleged that the Permanent Secretary for Internal Security is being targeted based on tribal affiliations. “Some people feel others are not allowed to hold such positions. We do not want our country to become like Sudan,” he cautioned.
On Abductions and Killings
Addressing the growing concerns over abductions in the country, Atwoli described the incidents as suspicious and accused those speaking out about them of having a hidden agenda. “If your child has been abducted by the government or whoever, ask yourself why. Some NGOs are exacerbating the situation. The other day, an NGO encouraged a friend’s child to stage their own abduction for money. These abductions are fishy.”
Response from Dr. Boni Khalwale
However, Senate Majority Chief Whip and Kakamega Senator Dr. Boni Khalwale countered Atwoli’s remarks, calling on the government to end extrajudicial killings.
“No human being can abduct themselves and kill themselves. Leaders must wake up and not sugarcoat wrongs.”
Khalwale warned that the rise in abductions threatens national peace and stability.
“Time has come for national leaders to ask what happens in the Office of the President. From Mzee Jomo Kenyatta’s era to the late Daniel Arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and now President Ruto, extrajudicial killings and abductions have persisted. We must ask ourselves why. This era of killings must end immediately,” Khalwale asserted.
He appealed for a comprehensive national dialogue to address the issue, restore public confidence in the country’s security systems, and ensure justice for victims.
Support for the Government
Khalwale urged Kenyans to support President William Ruto’s government until 2027, emphasizing that elections provide an opportunity for accountability. “We are not fools. If he is good, we will continue; if not, we will elect someone better. That is how politics works.”
On a Lighter Note
In closing, Atwoli expressed his hope for a Luhya presidency. “I will not die until a Luhya becomes President of Kenya. One day, Isukuti will be played, and dancers will celebrate as we bring the big seat here to Mulembe Nation,” he said.
