By Njeri Irungu.
The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya) (COTU) has strongly criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over what it describes as sustained attacks on the country’s trade union movement.
In a sharply worded press statement issued on behalf of affiliated union leaders, COTU accused Gachagua of launching “unwarranted, reckless and publicity-seeking” attacks targeting the labour body, its Secretary General Francis Atwoli, and its member unions.
The union federation claimed Gachagua’s remarks reflect political frustration following his impeachment and alleged that his recent statements were part of a broader campaign to discredit institutions perceived to be aligned with the government.
COTU defended its legacy, noting that the labour movement in Kenya dates back to the early 20th century, long before Gachagua’s entry into public life. The organisation said many of its affiliate unions were established as early as 1937 following the enactment of the Trade Union Ordinance, underscoring what it termed as its deep historical and institutional roots.
The statement further criticised Gachagua’s understanding of labour issues, arguing that trade unions are built on decades of struggle for workers’ rights, including fair wages and improved working conditions, and cannot be undermined by political rhetoric.
COTU also dismissed as “misguided” Gachagua’s reported calls to form a rival umbrella body, insisting that the federation remains the country’s legally recognised national labour centre with international standing and millions of members.
At the same time, the union body linked the remarks to recent Labour Day celebrations attended by President William Ruto, during which a 12 per cent general wage increase and a 15 per cent rise in agricultural minimum wages were announced. COTU argued that such measures demonstrate ongoing efforts to improve workers’ welfare.
The federation also pointed to the government’s intention to ratify key international labour conventions, including protections for domestic workers and safeguards against workplace violence and harassment, saying these reforms are in line with global labour standards.
COTU maintained that its leadership, including Atwoli, has historically faced arrests and harassment in the course of advocating for workers’ rights, contrasting this with what it described as Gachagua’s focus on political survival.
The statement concluded with a warning that trade unions would not be distracted by what it termed as divisive politics, reaffirming their commitment to defending workers’ rights, promoting social justice and upholding national unity.
The remarks were delivered by COTU Deputy Secretary General Benson Okwaro on behalf of the federation’s affiliated general secretaries.