Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has responded to remarks made by Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli.
Speaking in a TV interview on Wednesday night, November 27, Atwoli weighed in on Omtatah's 2027 presidential bid, highlighting the need for financial preparedness.
While downplaying the Senator's ability to clinch the seat, the COTU boss noted that any political campaign requires a proper budget and resources.
“If he came to me, I would tell him, let me see your budget. Are you going to depend on well-wishers, or what do you have as a person? Because when you are emerging for a political position, you must have saved. The world over, nobody wants to be associated with a poor person," Atwoli said.
In a rejoinder, Omtatah noted that ordinary Kenyans are the true backbone of change.
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In a statement on Thursday, November 28, the Senator said he is relying on a people-powered campaign which he believes will deliver a better future.
"Leadership is about vision, integrity, and the will to serve. Ordinary Kenyans, not wealth or privilege, are the backbone of any true movement for change. We will prove that a people-powered campaign can inspire hope and deliver a better future for all," Omtatah said.
Barely a week ago, Omtatah announced the formation of a committee to assess his viability for the 2027 presidential election.
In an update on Saturday, November 23, the Senator said the committee will be tasked with engaging the public and determining the best way to address challenges facing the country.
"We are at a pivotal moment in our nation's history, and the call to serve has never been more urgent. After careful consideration and consultations with trusted advisors, community leaders, and citizens from all walks of life, I am pleased to announce the formation of a Presidential Exploratory Committee.
"This committee will thoroughly assess the viability of my candidacy for the 2027 presidential election. Its primary focus will be to engage with the public, gather input on the most pressing challenges facing our nation, and determine how best to address these issues with bold and innovative leadership," he said.
The committee is made up of ten members including Mary Kathomi Riungu who will serve as chairperson and Charles ole Kabaiku who will serve as deputy chairperson and diaspora coordinator.
Others are David John Bwakali, Victor Kipng'etich, Hanifa Adan, Jude Ogulla, Purity Ndambuki, Emmanuel Baraka, Kevin Migwe and Julius Okara.
