A fresh political and labour dispute has emerged after the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) strongly criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his proposal to create an alternative workers’ umbrella body in Kenya.
The exchange has sparked debate among workers, politicians, and union leaders about the future of labour representation in the country.
The disagreement began after Gachagua accused COTU leaders of failing to properly defend Kenyan workers from economic hardships, rising deductions, and the high cost of living.
While speaking during a workers’ forum in Nairobi, he claimed that the current labour movement had become too close to the government and no longer represented the interests of ordinary employees.
Gachagua specifically criticized COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli, accusing him of benefiting politically while workers continued to struggle financially.
He questioned why workers kept supporting the same union leadership year after year despite their frustrations. The former deputy president argued that workers deserved a fresh organization that would fight more aggressively for better pay, improved working conditions, and protection from excessive deductions on salaries.
He went further and proposed the formation of a new labour umbrella body that would compete with COTU and give workers what he called “a real choice.” According to him, such a movement would better address the needs of Kenyan employees and challenge what he described as long-standing failures within the current labour leadership.
However, COTU responded sharply to the remarks, dismissing the proposal as misguided and politically motivated.
In a strongly worded statement, the union accused Gachagua of attempting to weaken institutions that have defended workers for decades.
COTU said trade unions are not organizations that can simply be created overnight for political reasons or personal interests.
The labour organization defended its history and role in Kenya’s labour movement, saying union leaders have sacrificed greatly over the years to protect workers’ rights.
COTU leaders stated that many trade union officials had faced arrests, intimidation, and hardships while fighting for fair treatment of workers.
The union insisted that its foundation was built on years of struggle and international recognition, not political convenience.
COTU also accused Gachagua of launching attacks against the labour movement because of political frustrations. The union claimed his remarks appeared to come shortly after President William Ruto announced salary increases during Labour Day celebrations.
The government had revealed a 12 percent general wage increase and a 15 percent increase in agricultural minimum wages, moves that were welcomed by many workers’ groups.
According to COTU, the timing of Gachagua’s criticism raised questions about whether he was reacting to the government’s growing support among workers.
The union warned that politicizing labour matters could divide workers and weaken the unity that unions have built over many years.
The exchange has attracted mixed reactions from Kenyans. Some workers have supported Gachagua’s calls for reforms, arguing that unions need fresh leadership and stronger action against economic challenges affecting employees.
Others have defended COTU, saying the organization has played a major role in protecting labour rights and negotiating better terms for workers over the years.
Political analysts believe the confrontation could shape future debates about labour rights and political influence in trade unions.
Some observers see the dispute as part of a larger political battle ahead of future elections, while others believe it highlights genuine frustrations among workers struggling with the rising cost of living.
Despite the criticism, COTU has remained firm that it will continue representing workers across the country.
The union says no amount of political pressure or public attacks will weaken its commitment to labour issues.
At the same time, Gachagua appears determined to continue pushing for alternative leadership structures within Kenya’s labour movement.
Post a Comment