Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has called on Kenyans to exercise patience and allow President William Ruto time to fulfill his mandate. Speaking during the Labour Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, Atwoli defended the President against growing criticism, urging citizens to rally behind the government for the sake of national stability.
Atwoli dismissed claims that Ruto has lost public support, asserting that such narratives are unsubstantiated. “Hawa Wakenya unaskia wakisema ground ni mbaya… lakini ground sio mbaya. Huyo anasema ground ni mbaya hana ground. Tuwache mtu amalize kazi yake,” he said, stressing that every administration since independence has faced difficulties, yet managed to complete their terms.
Reflecting on past presidents, Atwoli encouraged Ruto to remain focused and not be intimidated by critics. “Your Excellency Rais Ruto, usitishike… Jomo Kenyatta, Moi, Kibaki, and Uhuru all had challenges, but they completed their ten years. It won’t be different for you,” he noted.
Atwoli reiterated COTU’s non-partisan role, emphasizing the importance of maintaining industrial harmony. “COTU is not a political party. We negotiate for workers’ rights. We must support the government of the day for the stability of the country,” he said.
He also expressed concern about the influence of unregulated social media content, warning that Kenya must act before it’s too late. “If we don’t regulate social media, we will be in trouble. Look at what is happening in the DRC,” he cautioned, pointing out that countries like China, the UK, and the US have regulations in place.
On a personal note, Atwoli hinted at a possible retirement from COTU leadership, having served for over two decades. “I told President Ruto that he will be the last president I serve. But this doesn’t mean I’m the only one who can lead the labour movement,” he concluded, noting the executive board’s support for his continued leadership.
Atwoli’s remarks come at a time of heightened political tension in Kenya, as public discontent continues to grow over economic and governance issues.
