Africa-Press – Kenya. There was a ‘protocol hitch’ during Saturday’s funeral ceremony of former Cotu chairman Rajab Mwondi in Vihiga county.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Cotu secretary general Francis Atwoli disagreed over who between them should invite Azimio leader Raila Odinga to the podium.
Osotsi who positioned himself as the key leader of the ODM brigade in Vihiga called out Vihiga Deputy Governor Wilbeforce Kitiezo to address the mourners then welcome Raila.
“Let me take this opportunity to welcome deputy governor who will later invite our party leader Raila Odinga,” Osotsi said.
Atwoli, however, said, “Raila is my brother in-law and I’m the one to welcome him here to address people.”
The Cotu boss then grabbed the microphone from Senator Osotsi and proceeded to welcome Raila.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi who was present during the ceremony, rallied support behind Atwoli saying no one should attack him for his stand.
A section of Azimio leaders have had a frosty relationship with Atwoli since he shifted his allegiance to the government side after the 2022 presidential race.
Mudavadi, however, said elections are over and Atwoli is free to work with the government of the day.
Atwoli while threatening to ‘recall’ politicians he said he sponsored during the elections, defended his decision to work with the government saying he needs President William Ruto’s support in fighting for the welfare of workers.
“I lead workers and you can’t be fighting the government and at the same time you want it to look into the welfare of works,” he said.
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