Stop dividing workers, Atwoli warns ministry

By RAWLINGS OTIENO

Nairobi, Kenya: Central Organisation of Trade Union (Cotu) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has warned the Government against dividing trade unions, to dilute its strength.

He said Cotu has remained steadfast in the pursuit for a workforce that has better welfare and urged for unity, if the workers are to be well represented. He said the unity of the workers under one strong labour union would propel the country’s economy to greater heights. Atwoli dismissed reports that there were wrangles between him and Labour Cabinet Secretary Kazungu Kambi.

“I have said again and again said that the price I can always pay for the rights of these workers is my personal life. You must be fearless, if you want to represent the workers,” said Atwoli.

Addressing workers during the Labour Day celebrations at Uhuru Park yesterday, Atwoli alleged that top National Social and Security Fund (NSSF) officials have tendencies of creating fear among staff and harassing members of a particular community because of his stand surrounding mega scandals at the body.

Intimidation

He said the NSSF board chairman Adan Mohamed and the Managing Trustee should ensure the staff work without fear and intimidation or any undue stress.

“My tribe is the workers and the staff at NSSF should not be intimidated because of Atwoli. I want the minister Kambi to deal with that,” said Atwoli.

The Cotu boss in his 11th address since he took over the mantle of the trade union, told NSSF officials to respect workers because they are managing their contribution.

He said workers have suffered for a long time because of the high cost of living, yet their wages have remained low. He urged employers to review the wages and pay them commensurate with work done.

He cautioned the Sarah Serem-led Salaries and Remuneration Commission against reviewing the salaries of civil servants.

“I want to caution Sarah Serem that they should not review the salaries based on productivity. You are setting a big fight,” he said.

Dressed in his usual purple shirt, the vocal trade unionist criticised Public Servants Trade Union, saying Cotu cannot be compared to a non-existent union, whose officials are there courtesy of the work Cotu has been doing.

“Politicians should keep off the affairs of any trade union. We don’t want to be politicians so they should not push us to that direction. You know what will happen if we went that way,” said Atwoli.