Atwoli: The only person who can take Kenya to first-world status is Ruto

Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has urged young Kenyans to support President William Ruto, describing him as a leader with the drive and capacity to transform the country to first-world status. 

Speaking in Eldama Ravine, Baringo County, Atwoli said his views about the President had shifted significantly since the 2022 elections, noting that Ruto’s performance in office had altered his earlier opposition stance.

He told residents that Kenya needed unity and collective support behind national leadership if the country was to achieve long-term growth, industrial expansion, and global competitiveness.

“This young man called William Ruto, I was his fiercest opponent, there was no one harsher than me. I even said he would hang himself by planting trees at his home. But when you look at what he has done in two years, it is what we could not achieve in five or even ten years,” Atwoli stated. 

Atwoli argued that the President’s agenda reflects a long-term vision aimed at positioning Kenya as a modern, industrialised economy capable of attracting both local and international investors.

“Let us support him and ignore the noise from people. Even us, the older generation, when asked if Ruto should go home, we say no. What he is talking about, Kenya becoming a first-world country or among developed nations, is possible,” he added.

The COTU boss further said the country needed leadership focused on creating opportunities for young people through industrial growth, investment attraction, and job creation.

“He is brave and he is not worried about being removed. He is focused on the interests of Kenyans and transforming our country. Young people need a future in a developed country that attracts direct and indirect investment, has manufacturing plants, and has the facilities to support growth,” Atwoli stated.

According to Atwoli, Kenya’s transformation requires stable leadership, economic reforms, and sustained development policies that prioritise productivity, infrastructure expansion, and industrialisation.

“The only person who can take us to that level is none other than William Ruto,” he noted.