Atwoli Warns Against Church Politics as He Pushes for 23% Pay Rise for Kenyan Workers
Francis Atwoli, the Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), has raised an alarm over politicians who use church pulpits to broadcast messages of hate and division.
Speaking during a Labour Day thanksgiving service at ACK St. Stephen’s Church on Sunday, Atwoli cautioned that such rhetoric threatens to push the country into chaos if left unchecked. He stressed that the church must remain a sanctuary for peace, particularly as political temperatures rise ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In his address, delivered days before the national Labour Day celebrations scheduled for May 1 in Vihiga County, the COTU leader urged religious institutions to act as stabilizing forces.
“It is very unfortunate that, today, all the divisive politics in this country is played at the pulpit of churches with the blessing of the leadership of various churches. I want to call upon our church leaders, just like I have called upon the IEBC, to put to a stop the divisive politics that is chasing away investors from this country and increasing the risk of political instability,” Atwoli said.
He noted the long-standing partnership between the church and the labor movement, calling for both entities to deepen their collaboration in fostering a peaceful and productive environment for Kenyan workers.
Shifting his focus to current political affairs, the secretary general criticized leaders across the political divide for fixating on personal vendettas rather than outlining their vision for the Kenyan people. He observed that both government and opposition figures appear more concerned with attacking one another than addressing the country’s core challenges.
Atwoli further asserted that Kenya’s economy remains resilient despite global instability, including the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. He argued that this economic stability provides a perfect window for President William Ruto to approve a 23 percent salary increase for all civil servants.
“I wish to inform Kenyan workers that Cotu has already presented its proposal for a raise in minimum wage by 23 percent based on the rise in consumer prices and petroleum products. We, as Kenyan workers, are expectant and hopeful that His Excellency President William Ruto will hear our plea,” he stated.
Atwoli noted that this adjustment is vital to restoring the purchasing power of workers who are currently struggling with the soaring cost of fuel and basic household goods.
Atwoli also expressed support for the ongoing reforms between the national and county governments, specifically the KSh 80 billion collaboration deal recently signed at State House. He took the opportunity to criticize Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, claiming the city has suffered from neglect and poor management under his leadership.
“Nairobi County, with its population, should not be a dirty and disorganized city. Now, it’s even difficult to tell the names of the roads because the signs are not there, happening under Governor Sakaja,” Atwoli remarked, pointing to the city’s deteriorating infrastructure.
Makadara Member of Parliament George Aladwa, who attended the service, echoed the push for a salary increase, noting that the rising cost of living has become unbearable for most Kenyan families. He urged President Ruto to keep the welfare of workers in mind as the country approaches Labour Day.
“I want to urge the president to remember our workers as we get ready for Labour Day. Our workers need to be considered so that they can live as Kenyans and take care of their families,” Aladwa said. He also criticized a section of politicians for showing disrespect toward the office of the president, calling for more decorum in the nation’s political discourse.
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