Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sharply criticized Francis Atwoli over what he termed a “critical mistake” during this year’s Labour Day celebrations, accusing the long-serving trade union leader of abandoning workers’ interests for political rhetoric.
Speaking at a public gathering in Kajiado, Gachagua took issue with Atwoli’s remarks delivered at Chavakali High School in Vihiga County, where national leaders including William Ruto, Moses Wetangula, and Musalia Mudavadi were in attendance. According to Gachagua, the Labour Day platform was meant to highlight workers’ grievances but instead turned into a political rally.
“At a time when Kenyan workers are burdened by heavy taxation and shrinking payslips, their leaders should be amplifying their cries—not chanting political slogans,” Gachagua said, referencing Atwoli’s “two terms” chants perceived to support President Ruto’s re-election bid.
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Gachagua argued that civil servants and ordinary workers are facing increased economic pressure due to rising statutory deductions and the high cost of living. He faulted union leadership for failing to confront the government on these issues, claiming that those entrusted with protecting workers have grown too close to power.
“The people who should defend workers are now dining with the oppressor,” he added, accusing Atwoli of neglecting his duty as the Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU).
The former Deputy President used the moment to position himself as a defender of workers’ rights ahead of the 2027 General Election, promising sweeping reforms to ease the tax burden and improve working conditions if elected president.
Atwoli has yet to respond publicly to Gachagua’s remarks, but the exchange underscores growing political tensions, with Labour Day increasingly becoming a battleground for competing narratives over Kenya’s economic direction and leadership ahead of the next चुनाव cycle.
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