A clash appears imminent as a rival labor union declares its intentions to organize parallel Labor Day festivities to counter the traditional ones hosted by the Central Organization of Trade Unions Kenya (COTU-K).
In a surprising turn of events, the relatively unknown Trade Unions Congress of Kenya (TUCO) has revealed plans to hold its celebrations at the Kenyatta International Convention Center (KICC) Grounds on May 1.
Meanwhile, COTU-K has already set its sights on the Uhuru Gardens in Lang’ata Nairobi for its celebrations, also scheduled for the same day and time. Both factions have extended invitations to President William Ruto to grace their respective occasions.
As of last evening, sources close to the presidency revealed that President Ruto had yet to confirm his attendance at either event.
TUCO, associated with Charles Mukhwaya, the Secretary General of the Kenya University Staff Union (KUSU), has a longstanding rivalry with COTU-K. This feud traces back to former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s first term, when then Labor Cabinet Secretary Kazungu Kambi established TUCO in a bid to oust COTU-K Secretary General Francis Atwoli from office.
In a letter dated April 24, TUCO extended an invitation to all union officials and members to attend the 59th Labor Day celebrations at KICC on May 1.
“We are pleased to invite you to the 59th Labor Day celebration, scheduled to take place at the KICC on May 1, 2024, at 9:00 am. This year’s event promises to be extraordinary as we recognize and honor the hard work and dedication of workers in our nation,” read part of the letter penned by TUCO’s convener and Rigoma Ward MCA, Nyambega Gisesa.
Gisesa’s missive further stated, “The main celebrations are expected to be graced by President William Ruto, acknowledging workers’ contributions to national development.”
TUCO urged its members to boycott COTU’s celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, accusing the union’s leadership of neglecting workers’ concerns during past events.
“Moreover, you are encouraged to inform and mobilize your members to abstain from Francis Atwoli-led Labor Day celebrations, slated for Uhuru Gardens—a platform that merely serves his ego and offers little benefit to the Kenyan worker. For the past 23 years, Atwoli has hosted Labor Day celebrations without yielding tangible benefits for Kenyan workers. Let’s boycott,” Gisesa added.
TUCO emphasized that Labor Day celebrations should not merely be a customary affair but also an opportunity for workers to express gratitude to the workforce driving the country’s economy.
The union stressed that it would be a moment to reflect on the tireless efforts of workers across various sectors.
