The long-serving Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions Kenya, Francis Atwoli, has criticised a section of the media over what he termed a misleading and malicious headline regarding this year’s Labour Day wage announcement.
Speaking to journalists at the Tom Mboya Labour College on Saturday, May 2, 2026, Atwoli faulted the publication for what he said was a distortion of facts from the Labour Day celebrations held in Vihiga County on May 1.
Atwoli clarified that the 12 per cent wage increase announced by William Ruto is a general wage increment applicable to all Kenyan workers, and not a minimum wage adjustment as suggested in the contested headline. He explained that agricultural workers separately received a 15 per cent minimum wage increase.
“To clarify what I said, the 12 per cent wage increase was not a minimum wage adjustment but a general wage increase. There is a clear distinction. Agricultural workers had their minimum wage raised by 15 per cent, but every Kenyan worker is entitled to the 12 per cent general increase,” said Atwoli.
He insisted that the two increments should not be confused, noting that even those who benefited from the 15 per cent minimum wage adjustment are still eligible for the 12 per cent general increase.
Atwoli further revealed that President Ruto reiterated the clarification to Cabinet officials, including those in the agriculture docket, during a post-celebration engagement.
“The President made it clear that this is a general wage increase for all Kenyans, not limited to minimum wage earners. Every worker should benefit from the 12 per cent increment,” he added.
The COTU-K boss attributed the wage review to signs of economic recovery despite recent global challenges, including disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz and prolonged economic strain.
He noted that the move mirrors past interventions by previous administrations during periods of economic improvement, citing former presidents Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel arap Moi, and Mwai Kibaki.
“At no point did Kenyans complain in 2024 when a 6 per cent general wage increase was effected. This is not new. Successive governments have implemented similar measures when the economy allowed,” he said.
Atwoli also pointed to strong performance in key export sectors such as tea, flowers, and other commodities, urging employers to implement the directive.
“Companies, especially those in exports, performed well last year. They have the capacity to effect the 12 per cent increase,” he stated.
He concluded by urging Kenyans to support the government’s move, describing it as a step toward improved terms and conditions of service.
“We must thank the President for recognising that Kenyan workers deserve better pay and improved working conditions. Even at COTU, we shall effect the 12 per cent salary increase,” he said.
