Cotu secretary general Francis Atwoli has been urged to continue pushing for Luhya unity.Moses Nandalwe, a Sirisia MP aspirant, backed Atwoli’s initiative. He said on Saturday it will increase the community’s bargaining power. He termed it the most noble cause to be pursued by the community in recent history.
“Since the demise of Vice President Wamalwa Kijana, the community has lacked a dignified leader to unite them,” Nandalwe said at a Nairobi hotel.
He defended Atwoli from criticism about his agenda, especially those speculating he wants to impose his preferred presidential candidate.
“Atwoli can decide to enjoy his wealth and pretend all is well. We should respect him. He is doing this for us and the future generations,” he added. He said the information is misleading and meant to divide the community further.
“Atwoli hasn’t disclosed the name of any candidate. This will be done in Muliro Gardens in Kakamega in March next year. The rally will be attended by leaders, professionals and residents,” he said. “He made it clear it might be anyone. But for now, they are consulting.”
Nandalwe urged former Budalang’i MP Ababu Namwamba and his Funyula counterpart Paul Otuoma to “tread carefully”.
“Where will they be if Atwoli succeeds in uniting Mudavadi and Raila?” he asked.
He refuted claims that the unionist is a Jubilee strategist trying to auction the community. “He can’t stoop that low,” he said. The hopeful is considered a front-runner for Sirisia MP. The seat is held by ODM rebel John Waluke.