We can't contradict the president, says Atwoli on doctors' strike

President William Ruto and COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli during the 59th Labour Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi. [Samson Wire, Standard]

In mediating disputes between trade unions and employees, the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) typically steps in to facilitate negotiations.

COTU assists in negotiation strategies and represents workers during the collective bargaining process, often leading to successful resolutions and the end of strikes.

However, recent events have seen COTU's influence diminished.

During the 59th Labour Day celebrations on Wednesday, May 1, COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, expressed his organisation's inability to advocate for striking medics, claiming the president has rendered them ‘impotent’.

He said: "As I stand here, we believe that an injury to one is an injury to all. On March 6, you managed us when you announced that the government does not have money. You rendered COTU, the Ministry of Health, and the committee that you sent to resolve the matter impotent, because when you take over disputes, we cannot contradict you.”

These remarks come in the back of a prolonged healthcare workers' strike, now in its second month, causing disruptions in public hospitals and driving citizens to seek healthcare in private facilities.

Despite government warnings and failed negotiations with the Ministry of Health, doctors and clinical officers insist they will only return to work upon meeting their demands.

Initially seeking an audience with President Ruto, their efforts were met with a firm response indicating that the government's offer through the Health Ministry stands as the final one, effectively closing off dialogue.

Atwoli suggested that only President William Ruto holds the key to resolving the healthcare sector's issues, acknowledging the challenge of contradicting the Commander in Chief.  

“We have no leeway to contradict the Head of State. Even as we try to look for ways to reach you and have a dialogue, we know in every situation, you have an answer. And on this one, we leave it in your hands, praying that with your wisdom and that of your advisors, you will have an answer for us,” said Atwoli.

Meanwhile, PRuto has asserted that the government has addressed most of the doctors' demands, urging them to return to work to ensure essential services remain uninterrupted.