Francis Atwoli, the Secretary-General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), has announced his intention to challenge former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over what he describes as a history of opposing workers’ rights.
Atwoli made this declaration during a press briefing on Tuesday, January 28, where he accused Gachagua of undermining the interests of Kenyan workers during his time in office.
According to Atwoli, Gachagua actively worked to exclude workers from government plans, particularly because they did not support President William Ruto during the 2022 elections.
Atwoli further claimed that Gachagua discouraged President Ruto from engaging with workers, creating an environment that was hostile to their welfare.
Atwoli recalled a specific incident in February 2023 when union representatives visited the president at State House in Nairobi.
During this meeting, Gachagua reportedly questioned why the president was meeting with the union representatives, arguing that workers had not supported Ruto’s campaign and therefore did not deserve a place in the government.
Atwoli stated that Gachagua dismissed both the workers and the media present at the meeting, showing a clear lack of respect for their concerns.
Atwoli also mentioned that during last year’s Labor Day celebrations, he invited Gachagua to join workers for lunch, but the former deputy president declined the invitation.
This refusal, according to Atwoli, was further evidence of Gachagua’s lack of support for workers.
Atwoli emphasized that he is determined to stand against Gachagua and fight for the rights of Kenyan workers.
He described Gachagua as someone who has consistently shown disdain for the workforce and vowed to counter his influence and rhetoric.
Atwoli also pointed to Gachagua’s political clout and his impeachment late last year as factors that have emboldened the former deputy president.
Despite this, Atwoli promised to continue advocating for workers and ensuring that their voices are heard in government.
This declaration sets the stage for what could become a prolonged conflict between the two leaders.
Atwoli has positioned himself as a defender of workers’ rights, committed to safeguarding their interests against what he perceives as political hostility.
His strong stance reflects the ongoing tension between labor unions and political leaders in Kenya, particularly when it comes to the representation and welfare of workers.
Atwoli’s promise to challenge Gachagua highlights the importance of workers’ rights in the country and the need for leaders to prioritize their concerns.
It remains to be seen how it will impact the relationship between the government and the labor movement in Kenya.
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