Francis Atwoli, the Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), has strongly denied claims circulating online that Artificial Intelligence (AI) would be used to block young people who participated in recent protests from getting jobs in the future.
A viral post, which falsely attributed the statement to Atwoli, claimed that employers would use AI to scan applicants’ social media accounts for any signs that they had joined anti-government demonstrations.
According to the fake post, anyone identified in photos or mentioned by name during the protests would automatically be blacklisted from employment.
The post allegedly stated:
“With the help of artificial intelligence, we will scan through social media accounts of job applicants to identify anyone who participated in protests. If your name shows up, no jobs for you.”
However, Atwoli quickly came out to discredit the statement. He labelled the circulating message as fake news, warning the public not to believe or spread such misinformation.
“Fake post alert,” Atwoli posted, making it clear that he and COTU had never made such a statement.
Atwoli Supports Regulation of Social Media—but Not AI Blacklists
While Atwoli denied the AI-related claims, it’s true that he has previously voiced concerns over how social media is being used by the youth—especially during politically charged times.
Back in April, during a period when young Kenyans flooded platforms like X (formerly Twitter) with controversial images—some even showing President Ruto depicted in a coffin—Atwoli argued that such content was harmful.
He said that unrestricted use of social media was negatively affecting the country and putting young people on the wrong path.
“Social media is not like this in countries such as China—it’s controlled. Here, we can’t allow such chaos.
The youth on social media have never worked in trade unions, and when you see the way they speak and post, especially about unions, it’s full of incitement,” Atwoli stated.
Because of this, the COTU leader has publicly urged the government to consider stricter regulation of digital platforms, claiming that the content being shared online can stir up unrest and mislead young people.
Atwoli Warns Youth Against Protests, Urges Patience
Atwoli has also taken a strong stand against ongoing youth-led protests, which gained momentum especially after the June 25 demonstrations. He has repeatedly cautioned young people that these protests are hurting the nation’s economy and chasing away potential investors.
Speaking on Friday, July 18, during the TUC-Africa Regional Conference on Peace and Security, Atwoli called for an end to the demonstrations. He urged the youth—especially members of Gen Z—to stay calm, avoid protests, and give the government a chance to deliver on development promises.
“To our young people—Gen Z—please abandon the protests. Stay home, stay peaceful, and support development. These demonstrations are frightening investors. Patience pays. Let’s embrace peace and dialogue,” he advised.
In conclusion, while Atwoli has been vocal about the dangers of unregulated social media and the economic impact of protests, he has categorically denied ever supporting the use of Artificial Intelligence to block protesters from employment. He continues to call for peace, discipline, and structured civic engagement from the youth.
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