Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has proposed forming an alternative workers’ organisation separate from COTU, even as COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli urged Federation of Kenya Employers Executive Director Jacklyne Mugo to resign amid a row over President William Ruto’s 12pc wage increase.
Speaking on Tuesday during the National Reflections Post-Labour Day forum and the launch of the Kenya Labour Market and Worker Welfare Report 2026, the former DP said the proposal would significantly benefit Kenyan workers.
“It is about time we created an alternative organisation so that Kenyans can have a choice; they do not have to be in COTU. Start forming that body. I assure you, get your paperwork in order, next year when we get into office, we shall register another organisation that champions the interests of Kenyan workers,” Gachagua said.
He also urged workers to register as voters ahead of the 2027 general election so they can take part in driving change in the country.
