Ruto Urges Unions to Prioritize Job Creation Over Salary Increases
In recent times, there has been a shift in the priorities of trade unions in Kenya. The President, William Ruto, has challenged them to focus on the creation of jobs and savings instead of just salary increments.
He highlighted this during a meeting with worker representatives, led by the Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), Francis Atwoli, at State House in Nairobi.
President Ruto emphasized the importance of trade unions in policy making that contributes to equality and inclusive socio-economic development.
He noted that labor unions should partner with the government to create synergy and ease the resolution of labor-related issues. Furthermore, he said that their success cannot be measured only by salary increases.
This change of focus comes at a crucial time when the country’s economy has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is expected that this shift will lead to the creation of more jobs, which will help to reduce the unemployment rate in the country.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also added that the government is committed to working with all leaders for the unity and development of the country. He further stressed that politics should not be used as a tool to divide the country.
The Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi echoed his sentiments and noted that it is time to serve Kenyans.
Atwoli emphasized that COTU will work together with the government to push its development agenda, adding that it’s time to move away from retrogressive politics and focus on the country’s development.
In conclusion, the call by President Ruto for trade unions to shift their focus from salary increments to the creation of more jobs and savings is a step in the right direction. It is expected that this change will help the country to reduce the unemployment rate, which has been a major challenge in Kenya.
Moreover, the government’s commitment to work with all leaders for the unity and development of the country is a positive move towards achieving the country’s development goals.
Ruto Urges Unions to Prioritize Job Creation Over Salary Increases