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In a statement, COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli said FKE’s commentary on statutory contributions was deeply irresponsible and contradicted the law, which mandates full implementation of the NSSF Act, 2013.
The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya) said it fully supports the establishment of the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF) and the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF), describing them as critical tools for long-term development and the welfare of Kenyan workers.
In separate letters addressed to Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, COTU (K) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli issued strong protests over what the union terms rogue behaviour by foreign investors operating in the country.
In a statement dated November 13, 2025, COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli said registration with embassies, high commissions, and consulates ensures that Kenyan workers are properly documented and can be reached in case of emergencies.
The planned redundancy follows the government’s decision to lease four state-owned sugar factories to private investors, who have now received approval to lay off all employees as part of the handover process.
Cotu said the bill is inconsistent with Article 41 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to trade union membership, and warned that its provisions could severely weaken protections for workers in Kenya’s fast-growing technology and digital economy sectors.
He expressed disbelief that COTU would oppose the construction of markets funded through the housing levy.