A fierce public spat has erupted between former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli over the alleged diversion of National Social Security Fund (NSSF) monies to infrastructure projects.
Speaking during a church service in Kilifi on June 8, 2025, Gachagua claimed that billions of shillings meant for workers’ pensions were being illegally redirected by the government to fund road construction and other public works. He accused the government of using NSSF funds to build projects like the Bomas of Kenya and the Rironi–Mau Summit Road.
Gachagua further challenged Atwoli who previously served as a trustee on the NSSF Board to condemn what he termed as an unlawful use of retirees’ savings. “We want Atwoli to speak about this NSSF money just as he has talked about the housing levy,” Gachagua urged.
In a swift and stern rebuttal on the same day, Atwoli accused Gachagua of spreading falsehoods and misleading Kenyan workers. “Mr. Gachagua’s claims are a distortion of facts and an attempt to politicise a vital institution that safeguards the future of millions,” he said in a statement.
The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) went further to accuse Gachagua of inciting economic sabotage by allegedly encouraging Kenyans to withdraw their NSSF contributions. They called on the government to consider legal action against him.
While COTU defended NSSF’s investment strategies—citing adherence to Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA) regulations and management by licensed professionals—they acknowledged public concerns. Atwoli urged the NSSF Board to address audit queries flagged by the Auditor General involving Sh16 billion for the year ending June 2024.
Atwoli also defended infrastructure investments using pension funds, pointing to successful models in countries such as Tanzania, Uganda, and South Africa. “It is far better and more secure for NSSF to invest in government infrastructure than to engage in questionable dealings with individuals like Mr. Gachagua,” he said.
The clash highlights growing tensions over the management of public funds and the politicisation of pension security, a matter closely watched by Kenyan workers across the country.
