Johnson Sakaja Grew Up With My Children, He's Part Of My Family, Francis Atwoli

• Atwoli has defended Nairobi governor Johnson Sakaja from leaders criticizing his leadership in the capital
• Earlier on during the Labour Day event, Sakaja had told Atwoli not to worry about him being criticised as it is part of politics
• On Saturday, April 28, Atwoli responded to the matter after Makadara MP George Aladwa asked him to defend Sakaja as a public servant

Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli joined numerous Kenyans in celebrating Labour Day on Wednesday, May 1.

While speaking at Uhuru Gardens, Atwoli disclosed his ties with Nairobi governor Johnson Sakaja.

Atwoli further spoke about how he has known Sakaja since his childhood days. He explained that he gets hurt whenever people bad-mouth the governor or ridicule his leadership.

" Sakaja grew up with my children. Sakaja has been part of my family," he said.

He added there is a need to establish communication channels with Governor Sakaja regarding matters concerning the informal sector and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of Nairobi without resorting to criticism.

What did Sakaja say?

In the same event, Sakaja urged Atwoli not to feel bad when he sees him being bashed by the public.

He further stated that Atwoli should understand that people talk in politics to distract others from focusing on their jobs.

" They have started to provoke you too. But that's politics, you must stand strong. You are not just a trade union leader in Kenya, but in Africa, and you must be respected."

How Atwoli defended Sakaja from critics

Francis Atwoli, on April 28, stated that leaders who were disparaging Sakaja whenever they got an opportunity to make a public address were hurting him, explaining that a child's pain resulted in the parents' hurt.

He admitted that he is exercising considerable restraint in refraining from confronting those who are criticizing Sakaja.

The COTU leader also conceded that he harboured discontent towards Sakaja regarding an undisclosed issue, leaving the attendees speculating.

Atwoli jumped into the matter after Makadara MP George Aladwa asked him to defend Sakaja as a public servant.

Aladwa's comments subtly countered sentiments expressed by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, suggesting that Aladwa likely maintains a significant interest in the governance and operations of Nairobi.