Francis Atwoli, the Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), is facing backlash for allegedly ignoring the Federation of Kenyan Employers (FKE) during the Labour Day celebrations held on Thursday.
The national event, which took place at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi and was attended by President William Ruto, has sparked controversy over Atwoli’s handling of employer representation.
Shortly after the event, FKE officials addressed the media and expressed disappointment in Atwoli’s actions, saying that failing to acknowledge their presence was unfair and disrespectful, especially during such a significant national occasion dedicated to labour matters.
FKE Chief Executive Officer Jacqueline Mugo rejected claims that the Federation had been working against President Ruto’s administration or failing to follow labour laws.
She defended the organisation, saying they had been acting in good faith and had always remained committed to meaningful dialogue and cooperation on labour issues.
Mugo further clarified the situation surrounding Kenya’s delay in ratifying two important international labour conventions.
She explained that ratification is not a simple process and must follow laid-down international procedures, including ensuring a country’s legal and operational systems are ready for implementation. “Ratifying international conventions requires thorough preparation.
The country must examine its laws and structures to ensure smooth implementation,” she stated.
She went on to express concern that instead of resolving matters through consultation and open dialogue—principles that guide labour relations—they were now witnessing public criticism and division.
“It’s unfortunate that rather than pursuing open discussions, which are the foundation of our sector, we are subjected to what happened today,” Mugo said.
The Federation also highlighted the tough conditions that many employers in Kenya are currently facing.
According to FKE, high taxes, a struggling economy, and rising operational costs are making it difficult for businesses to sustain employment and invest in the workforce.
During the same Labour Day event, Atwoli openly condemned the Federation, accusing them of being a stumbling block in the ratification of two key International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions—Convention 189, which focuses on the rights of domestic workers, and Convention 190, which aims to eliminate violence and harassment in the workplace.
Atwoli called upon President Ruto to personally intervene in the matter, urging him to hold a meeting with FKE leadership.
He argued that failure to adopt these conventions was harming the country’s reputation in the global labour arena.
“Anyone standing in the way of ratifying ILO Convention 189 and Convention 190 is also standing in the way of government efforts.
These conventions have already been ratified by many countries around the world,” Atwoli declared.
Appealing directly to the President, he added, “Your Excellency, we ask that you engage with the Federation of Kenyan Employers.
We need their support in making progress on this issue, and you are the right person to bring them to the table.”
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