Showdown simmers over parallel Labour Day fetes

A showdown is looming after a rival labour union announced its plans to hold parallel Labour Day celebrations to counter the traditional ones hosted by the Central Organsation of Trade Unions Kenya (COTU-K).

In a surprise move, little-known Trade Unions Congress of Kenya (TUCO) announced it would hold its celebrations at the Kenyatta International Convention Center (KICC) Grounds on May 1.

COTU-K has on the other hand scheduled its celebrations at the Uhuru Gardens in Lang’ata Nairobi on the same day and time, with both rival organisations inviting President William Ruto to grace the occasion.

By last evening, President Ruto had not confirmed whether he would attend any of the celebrations, sources close to the presidency told People Daily.

Tuco is associated with Charles Mukhwaya, the Secretary General of the Kenya University Staff Union (KUSU).

It has a long running war with COTU-K, dating back to former Pressident Uhuru Kenyatta’s first term in office when then Labour Cabinet Secretary Kazungu Kambi formed it to kick out COTU-K Secretary General Francis Atwoli from office.

In a letter dated April 24, and addressed to all union officials, Tuco sent out an invitation to its members to attend the 59th Labour Day celebrations to be held at KICC on May 1.

“We are delighted to invite you to the 59th Labour Day celebration, which will take place at the KICC on 1st May 2024 at 9:00am. This year’s event promises to be exceptional as we recognize and honour the hard work and dedication of workers in our great nation,” the letter written by Tuco’s convener Nyambega Gisesa read in part.

Gisesa’s letter went on: “The main celebrations are expected to be officiated by President William Ruto and acknowledgement of workers contribution to national building.”

Tuco urged its members to shun Cotu’s celebration at Uhuru Gardens accusing the union’s leadership for ignoring the plight of workers in the previous celebrations.

“Further, you are requested to inform and mobilise your members to boycott the Francis Atwoli-led Labour Day celebrations which he plans to hold at Uhuru Gardens- a platform that only serves his ego and to chest thump a monologue ritual. For the last 23 years, Atwoli has held Labour Day celebrations using workers’ contribution with nothing beneficial to the Kenyan worker coming out of it - Lets boycott,” GIsesa added.

Tuco asserted that the celebrations should not be a seen as a tradition but also as an opportunity for workers to express gratitude to the workforce that drives the country’s economy.

The union said it will be a moment to reflect the tireless efforts of workers across various sector.

Tuco’s letter comes against one written in February 28 by Cotu inviting Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) members to its Labour Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens the same day.