The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General, Francis Atwoli, accused senior editors at Nation Media Group’s Daily Nation of blackmail on Monday, following a story about the alleged collapse of trade unions in the country.
Without providing evidence, the trade unionist claimed in a statement that the media giant’s editors were resorting to publishing stories that painted organisations in a bad light as part of a blackmail scheme.
Through COTU, Atwoli has petitioned the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) and the Kenya Editors Guild to take action against the media house.
“As COTU (K) we are calling upon the Media Council of Kenya and the Kenya Editor Guild to reign in on the rogue senior newspaper editors who continue blackmailing organizations and individuals through misleading stories that sell terror and fear when their demands are not met,” Atwoli stated amidst the alleged blackmail.
“COTU (K) shall continue representing the interest of Kenyan Workers and not of a few senior editors in newsrooms.”
Atwoli’s reactions come after a story titled “Death of Trade Unions” was published as the lead story for Monday, with the image of the vocal trade unionist plastered alongside the headline accusing trade unions of abandoning Kenyan workers.
The story accused trade unions of losing their spark, despite their enormous power due to their large constituency, countrywide structures, and ability to mobilise members on social or political issues.
The publication cited the declining number of workers attending Labour Day as evidence of the unions’ waning influence.
According to the paper, the 2023 Labour Day celebrations had the lowest turnout in history, with many workers staying indoors, indicating a vote of no confidence in the current unions.
According to Atwoli, the headline was misleading and part of a broader “trend of irresponsible and reckless journalism in Kenya.”
“COTU (K) is the second largest trade union in Africa and consequently continues effectively representing workers locally and internationally,” Atwoli remarked.
He also stated that COTU (K) believes in the principles of social dialogue, tripartite, and peaceful conflict resolution in order to protect the interests of workers.
As a result, he stated that COTU’s role is to work constructively with the government, employers, and other key players to advance workers’ rights and interests.
Atwoli previously stated that COTU (K) would not advise its members to participate in demonstrations calling for lower living costs.
Arguing his case, Atwoli remarked that the majority of COTU’s 4 million members cannot afford to lose a day’s wage.
