As Kenya marked its 60th Labour Day and the Diamond Jubilee of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU-K), former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua delivered a sobering message about the state of the nation’s workforce. Speaking in solidarity with millions of struggling Kenyans, Gachagua described the condition of workers as one of “unspeakable pain, anguish, and utter frustration.”
Labour Day celebrations, held at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, carried special significance this year as they commemorated six decades of championing workers’ rights through COTU-K. Yet, amid the fanfare, Gachagua’s message struck a chord with many, as he openly criticized the government for worsening economic conditions.
According to Gachagua, high taxes, a soaring cost of living, and rampant misuse of public funds have left the average Kenyan worker disillusioned and financially burdened. “The payslip has been raided for uncouth cause, cost of living skyrockets unbearably, and zero money in circulation as the powers that be trot the globe using public resources,” he said.
His remarks come at a time when many workers are feeling the pinch of new tax measures, stagnant wages, and rising basic commodity prices. Gachagua added that wishing workers a “happy Labour Day” felt insensitive given the hardships they currently endure.
However, despite the grim outlook, Gachagua offered a message of hope. He assured workers that efforts were underway to improve their situation, promising that “better days lie ahead.”
“My message to the Kenyan workers as we mark Labour Day is that as they struggle to make ends meet, they should take comfort that this situation is not permanent,” he said, adding, “We shall restore the dignity of the payslip. God willing, we shall get there.”
As the nation reflects on 60 years of labour milestones, Gachagua’s message served as both a reality check and a rallying cry for urgent economic reforms to restore dignity and relief to Kenya’s hardworking citizens.
