Francis Atwoli criticizes Murkomen's handling of Adani issue and government arrogance

By Robert Mutasi 

Veteran trade unionist and Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions Francis Atwoli took a jibe at Kipchumba Murkomen, then Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary, for doing nothing to act on the grievances of Kenyan workers. 

Atwoli's criticism came against the backdrop of simmering discontent by workers over the involvement of the Indian multinational Adani Group in the country's infrastructure sector.

Atwoli explained that he met Murkomen with the hope of advising him on the best line of action to take in the matter.

He explained that he would try to intervene between the CS and the affected workers by facilitating a meeting where Murkomen could explain the issue of Adani to them.

However, Atwoli said his attempts were met with silence - what he sees as the hallmark of a more wide-ranging problem of government arrogance.

"I called the previous CS for Roads and Transport, Murkomen, with a view to trying to educate and advise him to meet with the workers and explain the Adani issue to them," said Atwoli. "Our ministers are arrogant; they don't pick up calls unless they are from businessmen and employers. This is what has brought all this."

The involvement of the Adani Group in the infrastructural projects of Kenya has been quite contentious.

Some workers and other stakeholders have complained about the lack of transparency in the agreements reached and how it might affect local employment.

There have also been questions on whether due process was followed in the award of contracts to the Indian conglomerate.

Atwoli's comments reflect a growing sense of disgruntlement among the workers, who feel excluded from key discussions around the future of Kenya's infrastructure. 

He has never minced words as the boss of this union, taken to loud pitch advocacy for workers' rights, often crossways against government officials, whom he has accused of not engaging with workers and their representatives on issues that concern them.

He also lamented how government officials are likely to favor big businesses and employers at the expense of humble workers. 

According to Atwoli, this is what is causing dissatisfaction and a lack of confidence in the government's ability to serve fairly for all Kenyans.

Atwoli's comments have generated debate about the government's relationship with its citizens, especially with respect to industries such as infrastructure, where foreign investors are particularly influential.

What seems to be true is that many workers feel drowned out in favor of powerful corporations and business interests.

The Adani issue remains unresolved as workers and union representatives push forward for transparency and dialogue with government officials.

It remains to be seen whether the intervention by Atwoli will prompt a response from Murkomen or other leaders.