The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) has dismissed recent claims circulating on social media regarding the mishandling of its staff, calling them malicious and defamatory.
In a statement released on March 22, COTU rejected the allegations, labeling them as baseless and driven by personal vendettas aimed at tarnishing the union’s reputation.
“These unfounded accusations, clearly motivated by personal grudges, misrepresent the facts and aim to mislead the public,” the statement reads.
COTU clarified that it has always prioritized the welfare of its employees, including ensuring timely salary payments.
The Union explained that there was only one instance of delayed payments, which occurred when a former payroll accountant attempted to increase his own salary.
COTU believes that this individual is behind the false allegations, as he was dismissed following the incident.
The Union elaborated, stating that the accountant was hired after making a passionate appeal to the Secretary-General, Francis Atwoli.
However, the accountant betrayed the trust placed in him by engaging in fraudulent activities and now seeks to mislead the public.
“The only instance of delayed salaries occurred when a former payroll accountant, whom we believe is behind these false claims, attempted to manipulate the payroll for his own financial gain,” COTU explained.
“His incompetence and unethical conduct caused administrative delays, which were resolved promptly after he was dismissed from his duties.”
COTU also addressed claims that multiple staff members were unfairly dismissed, labeling them as false.
The Union clarified that Jacqueline Njambi voluntarily resigned after securing a position with the National Employment Authority under the Ministry of Labour.
Selina Ngei left to take a new role in Tanzania with an organization closely affiliated with the Union.
Nnamdi Iliobachie, a Nigerian national, resigned to reunite with his family, and Irene Kendi left for personal reasons.
“As shown, former COTU employees who have left the organization have since taken up senior roles in both the private sector and government.
All those who departed have received their full service payments and dues, and none have raised any complaints,” the Union said.
COTU emphasized that the only employee dismissed for misconduct was the payroll accountant, who was let go after just four months for attempting to manipulate the payroll and alter the Union’s logo.
The Union followed the proper procedures for his dismissal but chose not to pursue legal action.
“During his probationary period, while still employed for just four months, he attempted to alter the payroll for personal financial gain and even tampered with the organization’s logo,” COTU added.
“His dismissal followed due process, and despite his misconduct, COTU chose not to pursue legal action against him.”
The Union also reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, with a strict zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment.
COTU highlighted that it has a clear Sexual Harassment Policy and a Safeguarding Policy in place to ensure complaints are handled swiftly and effectively.
“As of today, no serving officer or official of COTU is facing allegations or investigations related to sexual harassment,” the Union said.
COTU reaffirmed its dedication to advocating for workers’ rights and maintaining transparency, fairness, and accountability.
It urged the public to disregard the unfounded claims and treat them with the contempt they deserve.
“It is unfortunate that an individual who was given the opportunity to serve Kenyan workers would resort to spreading false propaganda to settle personal scores,” COTU concluded.
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