Sifuna declares political independence, tells off Atwoli over 2027 campaign support

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has sparked nationwide debate after publicly distancing himself from COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli ahead of the 2027 General Election, saying he does not need the veteran trade unionist’s money or political connections to pursue a presidential bid.

Speaking during a public rally that was shared widely on social media, Sifuna directly addressed Atwoli, telling the COTU boss to keep his financial support and what Sifuna termed the “password to State House.” In a statement that quickly went viral, the ODM Secretary General declared that his political journey would be guided by faith, not by patronage.

"Pesa na password ya kuingia statehouse kaa nayo staki" ~Sifuna, he told the crowd, loosely translated as “Keep your money and the password to State House, I don’t want them.”

Sifuna’s remarks come at a time when early maneuvering for the 2027 presidential election is already intensifying. With more than a year to go before Kenyans head to the polls, political leaders across the spectrum are testing messages, building alliances, and signaling their ambitions.

For decades, Francis Atwoli has been one of the most influential power brokers in Kenyan politics. As Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions, he commands a massive worker base and is known for his ability to mobilize support, fundraise, and broker deals between political camps. His endorsement has historically been treated as a valuable asset for any politician eyeing national office.

By publicly rejecting Atwoli’s support, Sifuna is breaking with a long-standing tradition in which younger politicians seek blessings and backing from established elders. The Nairobi Senator framed his decision not as disrespect, but as a statement of principle.

According to the remarks captured in the video, Sifuna reminded Atwoli that political success ultimately comes from God, not from money or connections. The message resonated with many in the crowd, who cheered as he spoke about running a campaign rooted in people-driven politics rather than elite sponsorship.

Kenya’s political landscape is already shifting ahead of 2027. President William Ruto is expected to seek a second term, while opposition figures are reorganizing and testing new formations. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, also mentioned in the trending hashtags, has been holding extensive grassroots consultations.

In this environment, Sifuna’s comments are being read in multiple ways. Some analysts see it as a bold attempt to position himself as an independent voice within ODM and the broader opposition. Others view it as early groundwork for a national profile, with Sifuna using the platform to differentiate himself from what he portrays as “old politics” of money and godfathers.

The Senator has not officially declared a presidential bid. However, his growing visibility as ODM’s Secretary General, combined with his frequent and often fiery public appearances, has led to speculation that he is preparing for a bigger role.

By invoking God’s provision, Sifuna tapped into a narrative that is common in Kenyan politics but gave it a twist. Instead of using faith to justify seeking blessings from powerful patrons, he used it to argue for self-reliance and public trust.

Francis Atwoli has been COTU Secretary General since 2001 and remains one of the longest-serving labor leaders in Africa. Over the years he has played kingmaker roles, hosted presidents at his Kajiado home, and openly commented on succession politics.

His influence stems from both his union base and his personal relationships with successive heads of state. Politicians across party lines have, at various points, sought his counsel or financial support during campaigns.

That is why Sifuna’s public dismissal struck a chord. It was not just a rejection of money. It was a rejection of a system where political legitimacy is often seen as flowing from endorsements by powerful elders.

The phrase “password to State House” in particular captured attention online. In Kenyan political slang, it refers to the networks, backers, and gatekeepers perceived to control access to the presidency. By saying he does not want that “password,” Sifuna was essentially saying he intends to seek power through a different route.

Supporters praised Sifuna for what they called courage and authenticity. Many argued that Kenyan politics needs leaders who are not beholden to wealthy patrons and who can speak directly to ordinary citizens.

Critics, however, questioned the practicality of running a national campaign without significant financial backing and established networks. Some pointed out that even candidates who campaign on “people power” eventually require resources, structures, and alliances to compete effectively.

As Secretary General of ODM, Sifuna holds one of the most senior positions in the party led by Raila Odinga. His comments do not necessarily reflect official party policy, but they do add to the ongoing discussion about ODM’s direction post-2022.

The party is navigating a complex space, balancing cooperation with government on some issues while maintaining an opposition identity on others. Sifuna has often been one of the more outspoken voices in that debate, and his latest remarks reinforce his image as a politician willing to take strong, independent positions.

Whether this translates into a 2027 presidential run remains unclear. What is clear is that the statement has raised his national profile and positioned him as a figure willing to challenge political norms.

Kenya’s elections are often shaped by money, alliances, and endorsements. Campaigns are expensive, and access to influential figures can make the difference between visibility and obscurity.

Sifuna’s decision to publicly forgo that route is therefore significant. It sets up a test case for whether a candidate can build momentum through grassroots mobilization, messaging, and public trust alone.

Political strategists note that voters, especially younger ones, are increasingly skeptical of traditional power brokers. Issues like unemployment, cost of living, and corruption dominate conversations online and in communities. A message centered on independence and faith could resonate if it is backed by organization and policy.

For now, Sifuna has not outlined a formal campaign plan. But the viral moment has given him a talking point that distinguishes him from many of his peers: the claim that he does not need a godfather’s money or a godfather’s “password” to reach State House.

As one observer at the rally put it, “People are tired of the same script. Whether it works or not, at least he’s trying a different one.”

With 2027 still on the horizon, that different script will be watched closely. The coming months will show whether Sifuna’s declaration is a political statement, the start of a campaign, or both. What is certain is that the conversation he started has already captured the country’s attention.