The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Kenya has criticized sections of the media over what it termed as persistent misreporting and propagation of falsehoods regarding petitions filed against its recently concluded elections.
In a statement, the workers’ umbrella body expressed concern over reports alleging that seven petitions had been filed challenging its March 14, 2026 elections held at the Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu. COTU maintained that the claims were inaccurate and misleading.
“COTU (K) wishes to state, unequivocally, that only three baseless petitions have been filed,” the organization said, dismissing the reported figure as propaganda.
According to the union, the petitions include one filed at the Employment and Labour Relations Court in Nairobi, another at the High Court in Kerugoya, and a third case in Nairobi that it said had not yet been formally served.
COTU further alleged that the individuals and entities behind the cases do not represent the interests of Kenyan workers.
The organization also took issue with the motives of the petitioners, claiming they were not affiliated with any recognized trade unions.
“These petitions have been filed by individuals who are not members of any trade union nor with the interest of Kenyan workers at heart,” the statement read.
COTU accused unnamed actors of influencing journalists to distort facts, warning that such actions undermine public trust in both the media and democratic institutions.
“We strongly condemn the reporting by some media houses, which have falsely alleged that there are seven cases filed against COTU (K),” the union said, calling for adherence to professional standards in journalism.
The organization further revealed that courts had declined to grant orders sought by petitioners aimed at blocking the registration of newly elected officials.
It said the Employment and Labour Relations Court in Nairobi rejected the application, while the High Court in Kerugoya ruled that it lacked jurisdiction and transferred the matter to Nairobi.
“Yesterday, the Employment and Labour Relations Court refused to grant orders sought against the registration of COTU (K) elected officials,” the statement noted.
“The High Court in Kerugoya declined to grant similar orders and instead found that it lacked jurisdiction.”
COTU argued that these developments reaffirm the legitimacy of its electoral process and leadership, dismissing suggestions that the rulings amounted to a “reprieve” for the union.
“We wish to call out the sensational reporting on the court rulings… where some media houses reported that the rulings were ‘a reprieve to COTU’,” the statement said, insisting that its operations remain uninterrupted.
The union also sought to reassure its members, urging them not to be alarmed by ongoing legal challenges or media reports.
“We call upon Kenyan workers who are members of COTU (K) not to be disturbed by the propaganda being spread,” it said, adding that the petitions would not hinder its mandate to represent workers’ interests.
COTU emphasised that its leadership remains focused on its duties, noting that its Secretary General is currently attending an international labour meeting in Geneva.
The organization has urged media houses to exercise responsibility in their reporting, warning against being used as platforms for individuals seeking to abuse the court process.
“As COTU (K), we call for responsible journalism… as the media plays a critical role in shaping public discourse and must not be used to advance personal interests,” the statement added.
