COTU Blasts Gachagua Over ‘Reckless’ Attacks on Atwoli in Escalating Political Row
The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Kenya) has launched a sharp rebuke against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of waging “unwarranted and reckless” attacks against the labour movement and its leadership, including Secretary General Francis Atwoli.
In a strongly worded statement released on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, the workers’ umbrella body alleged that Mr Gachagua has engaged in a pattern of “publicity-seeking” remarks targeting COTU, its officials, and affiliated unions.
“The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya)… has taken note of the unfortunate, unwarranted, reckless, and publicity-seeking attacks directed at COTU (K), its Secretary General Francis Atwoli, and affiliated trade unions by the impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua,” the statement read in part.
‘Dangerous Mission’
COTU warned that Mr Gachagua’s remarks risk fuelling division within the country, suggesting that his recent public statements are driven more by personal grievances than genuine concern for Kenyan workers.
According to the union, the former deputy president appears to be on a “dangerous mission” that could undermine national unity, particularly in the wake of his impeachment and the political tensions that followed.
The organisation further argued that the attacks were aimed at discrediting institutions that form part of the current government framework, raising concerns about their potential impact on labour relations and governance.
Political Undercurrents
While Mr Gachagua has yet to formally respond to the latest accusations, his recent comments have been widely interpreted as part of a broader fallout between him and sections of the political establishment.
COTU’s intervention signals a deepening rift between the former deputy president and influential national bodies, with the union insisting that the labour movement will not be drawn into what it described as politically motivated disputes.
“The actions and statements in question do not reflect the interests of workers, but rather personal frustrations,” the union added, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding workers’ rights and institutional integrity.
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