Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has launched a scathing critique of the government,in his Labor Day message, saying Kenyan workers have little to celebrate as they grapple with shrinking incomes, rising taxes, and a deteriorating economy.
In a statement, Gachagua said workers across the world mark Labour Day in recognition of their contributions and in solidarity with one another but argued that the situation in the country paints a starkly different picture.
He said Kenyan workers are burdened by heavy taxation, stagnant wages and a rising cost of living, leaving many struggling to make ends meet despite working harder than ever.
“Today, workers in Kenya gather in pain and disrespect; they stand at the intersection of a mutilated payslip and a dwindling economy. They are overworked, overtaxed and underpaid, besides being disrespected,” Gachagua wrote.
The former Deputy President positioned himself as an ally of the country’s workforce, declaring his support for workers in what he described as an ongoing struggle for dignity and economic justice.
“To the Kenyan worker, today I stand with you in struggle, recognition and solidarity,” he said.
Gachagua also linked the plight of workers to the 2027 General Election, framing the poll as a decisive moment for the country’s economic future.
He said efforts had already begun to “liberate” workers from what he termed punitive deductions and eroded earnings.
“We started a journey to liberate your payslip and give you dignity in the end. The cause is on, and your future stands on trial on August 10, 2027,” he said.
Gachagua said the country must restore dignity to labour, insisting that many Kenyan workers have little reason to celebrate this year’s Labour Day.
“We must get back our worker. Besides, I know there is nothing to celebrate today,” he said.
Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wah shared the DCP Leader’s sentiments and stated that Kenyans had laboured enough.
Thang’wah shared a cryptic message in a poster that rebranded today as ‘Wantam Day’ instead of ‘Labour Day’.
The President is expected to propose changes to the minimum wage during his speech in this year’s celebrations.
Kenyan workers, through the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU-K), are pushing for a 23 percent increase in the minimum wage, citing a spike in inflation and unfavourable economic conditions.
The law allows the Head of State to adjust the minimum wage every two years. The last time it was reviewed was in 2024, when the minimum pay was raised by six percent.
