Talk to the Opposition, Atwoli tells Uhuru Kenyatta, William Ruto

Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has challenged the Jubilee government to stop maligning the Opposition and seek reconciliation for the sake of national unity.

Speaking at Muthwani Africa Brotherhood Church in Kangundo sub-county at a funds drive in aid of the church on Sunday, Mr Atwoli warned that the constant animosity between the ruling coalition and the Opposition could scare investors away.

He said the high rate of youth unemployment in the country could be reduced if Jubilee leaders embraced an accommodative approach towards the Opposition irrespective of their political views.

The Cotu boss said political tolerance was necessary for social cohesion.

"The best way for Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto to attract investors to the country is for them to create a harmonious political environment by embracing key Opposition leaders from all regions," said the Cotu boss.

He challenged senior politicians from both Jubilee and CORD to stop the chest-thumping and focus on the major challenges facing Kenyans today.

Ganged up

"It is so sad that millions of young people of this country, many of them with university degrees, continue to wallow in poverty and unemployment as our leaders engage in political theatrics every day. This country has the potential to create millions of new jobs if leaders pursued a reconciliatory and inclusive approach," said Atwoli.

Atwoli also claimed certain individuals and groups had ganged up against him for speaking for Kenyan workers.

"I find it strange that certain people and groups have been attempting to bring me down simply because I have rejected the machinations aimed at exploiting Kenyan workers. Somebody better tell them that I will not be cowed," he declared.