Atwoli recalls how Raila supported him during illness
By Kenneth Mwenda, October 18, 2025Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU-K) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has shared a touching story of how the late Raila Odinga stood by him during a difficult time in his life.
Speaking in Bondo on Saturday, October 18, 2025, Atwoli said Raila personally cared for him when he was unwell, describing the former Prime Minister as a compassionate and selfless leader.
Atwoli said Raila took him to the hospital and stayed by his side for three weeks despite his busy schedule.
“Raila has been close to me. Nobody knows at one time when I was unable to report on duty because I was sick he himself took it upon himself to take me to the doctor at the hospital. He stayed with me for two weeks, irrespective of his busy schedule in fact three weeks. Nobody can do,” he said.
The veteran trade unionist praised Raila as a man of peace who always sought unity, even during political differences.
“Raila was a peacemaker. He knew how to compromise he believed in dialogue. He believed in bigger Kenya and he knew Kenya was bigger than all of us,” he told mourners.
Calls for unity and peace
Atwoli urged Kenyans to remain calm and united as the country prepares to lay Raila to rest, saying his death should bring people together.
” Raila was a glue that used to put us together in his absence and his death should unify should unite Kenyans,” he said.
He also thanked President William Ruto and his government for declaring Raila’s burial a state funeral, saying it showed respect for a man who gave his life to serve Kenya.
Atwoli went on to thank journalists for their commitment in covering Raila’s death and the mourning period.
He added that several international trade unions had sent him messages of condolence, describing Raila as a respected figure beyond Kenya.
Atwoli’s remarks came hours after COTU dismissed online rumours claiming he was unwell. The organisation clarified that he was in good health and on his way to Bondo to mourn with Ida Odinga and the family.