President William Ruto has apologised to Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, over the harsh rhetorics during the 2022 campaign period.
The president made the apology during a meeting with Western leaders at Kakamega State Lodge as part of hus two-day tour of the region.
Ruto said he felt making such remarks about a person older than him was wrong. “During the election, we said all manner of things, including insults. I said nasty things about Mzee Atwoli and as a young person, I feel it was wrong. I ask you to forgive me,” the president said.
On his part, Atwoli pledged his allegiance to the government and said that as an international leader, there is no way he can oppose the state.
“As an international leader, I go to many countries. Soon I will be in Tanzania, our neighbouring country for an event that the president will attend. If President Samia asks me how William Ruto’s government is fairing do you expect me to say that I am in Azimio so I am waiting for Azimio government?” he posed a hilarious question, sending the audience to laughter.
Since the March 9 handshake, President Ruto and Atwoli have not had good things to say about each other. Atwoli was a vocal supporter of Azimio leader Raila Odinga and would many times criticise Ruto’s presidential bid.
However, his tune changed shortly after President Ruto’s swearing-in and has in the past asked Kenyans to embrace Ruto’s presidency.
