The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) has strongly reprimanded former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of launching “reckless” attacks against the labour movement and its leadership.

In a statement signed by general secretaries of COTU-affiliated unions, the umbrella body warned that Kenyan workers would not take Gachagua’s remarks lightly, describing his conduct as aimed at undermining institutions.

COTU defended its long-serving secretary general, Atwoli, insisting his record in championing workers’ rights stands in stark contrast to Gachagua’s political theatrics. “COTU (K) is older than him and will outlive his divisive and short-lived political theatrics,” the statement read.

The union dismissed Gachagua’s criticism terming them as publicity-seeking theatrics and questioned his motives, linking them to the recent Labour Day celebrations where President William Ruto announced a 12 per cent general wage increase and a 15 per cent rise in agricultural minimum wages.

Gachagua, speaking on Tuesday, May 6, accused union leaders of abandoning workers and singled out Atwoli for criticism, claiming he was only serving personal interests. He further urged workers to form a new umbrella body to champion their rights.

COTU has now dismissed the proposal as misguided, stressing that trade unions are not “political kiosks created overnight to satisfy wounded egos or personal vendettas.”

The union maintains that the labour movement remains firmly grounded, warning against attempts to politicise workers’ issues. It highlighted the sacrifices made by union leaders over decades, noting that many including Atwoli have faced arrest and persecution in defence of workers’ rights.

“Many union leaders have sacrificed their freedom, careers and personal comfort for the welfare of workers,” the statement emphasised.

This latest confrontation underscores growing tensions between Gachagua and COTU, with the union vowing to resist any efforts to destabilise the labour movement.