The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya), COTU (K), has voiced disappointment over a recent Daily Nation headline that it feels was misleading.
The headline in question, published on Monday, September 18, 2023, read “Death of trade unions.” While the accompanying article delved into trade unions’ increasing reluctance to weigh in on social and political matters, COTU (K) believes the provocative headline unfairly suggests that unions are no longer relevant or impactful.
COTU (K), through the boss Francis Atwoli rejected the notion that unions are fading into obsolescence or are afraid to speak out on current issues.
Atwoli said that the headline was a distortion of its position and an attempt to blackmail the organization and its members.
“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,” COTU (K) said in a press release.
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COTU (K), which has a membership of over four million workers, is the second largest trade union in Africa and represents workers locally and internationally. It said that it firmly believes in the principles of social dialogue, tripartism, and peaceful conflict resolution, and that it advocates for tripartite consultations and meaningful negotiations as the preferred avenues for addressing workers’ concerns.
“Our position is grounded in the understanding that Kenya is currently facing significant economic challenges. In these trying times, it is imperative that we collectively work towards stabilizing the economy, preserving jobs, and creating an environment conducive to sustainable economic growth,” COTU (K) said.
COTU (K) also called upon the media to uphold the highest standards of responsible journalism and to provide accurate and balanced information to the public.
“It is incumbent upon the media to provide accurate and balanced information to the public, particularly when reporting on matters as critical as trade union activities and labour relations,” COTU (K) said.
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