Atwoli Called out on interference with labour Bill amendment

Civil Society Organization, Bunge la Mwananchi has called out Central Organizations Trade Union (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli for interfering with the labor relations Bill before the Senate.

The social organization, accused the COTU Secretary General of doing everything possible to frustrate the amendment of the bill which seeks to remove compulsory agency fees and introduce union term limits.

Speaking to the Media, Bunge la Mwananchi president Francis Awino said the Bill will help protect the Kenyan workers and bring reforms which will bring true accountability in the various trade Unions.

“Bunge la Mwananchi fully endorses the labour relations (Amendment) bill number three of 2024 as it has a long awaited reform essential to protect Kenyan workers and establish true accountability within the trade Unions.” Awino stated.
They accused Atwoli of soliciting bribes from various trade Unions adding that they have a confidential letter by the SG asking various trade Unions to oppose the bill.
They termed the actions as unethical and misuse of union funds calling upon the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Authority (EACC) to investigate the matter.

“We have seen a confidential letter of COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli soliciting Sh100,000 from all trade Unions to oppose the bill. This is unethical and grose misuse of union funds to block vital democratic rights. We call upon the EACC to investigate the legality of the solicitations and ensure union funds serve the workers and not entranched interests.” Awino stated.

According to the outspoken president, reducing the union leadership term limits to two years is critical as it will leadership positions to new people helping unions to remain relevant and fight for the workers.

He said it is wrong for union leaders to hold positions for a lifetime instead of a specified period of time.
Awino called on Kenyans to support the bill to ensure the democracy, transparency and service of unions to workers.