Atwoli: Raila and Uhuru should work together

Nairobi; Kenya: Central Organisation of Trade Union (Cotu) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has urged President Uhuru Kenyatta to cultivate a good working relationship with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for economic growth of the country.

Atwoli attributed Kenya's slow economic development to the frosty relationship between Raila and Uhuru. He said the country will be better placed economically if the two leaders worked together.

"This will also foster peace and harmony in the nation," Atwoli said.

"The enmity between the leaders of the Government and the Opposition should stop. It is scaring away investors."

The Cotu secretary general also called for political tolerance among those who are for and against the calls for a referendum.

Speaking during the funeral of a former trade unionist Johnstone Ogendo at Kobura Ward in Kisumu County yesterday, he said a system should be devised for the money the governors are pushing for to go to the counties. This can be achieved when all the leaders sit down and agree, he added.

"We won't be in a position to create employment and spur economic growth if there is wrangling among the top leadership," said Atwoli.

His calls came even as Raila Odinga said he would accept the outcome of the referendum vote, whichever way it goes.

Raila, who was speaking during a fund-raiser in Kisii County on Friday, rallied locals to support the push for a plebiscite.

Raila faulted the Jubilee Government's argument that increasing budgetary allocation to counties to 45 per cent would burden tax payers. He said the benefits that will come with the changes in the Constitution will lead to better living standards for all Kenyans.

Atwoli's calls for unity were echoed by Kisumu Governor Jack Ranguma.

"I want to agree with Atwoli that when Raila and Uhuru talk, we will have stability," Ranguma said in his speech at the funeral.