Workers Demand Fulfillment of Promises on Labour Day - May 2026

Kenya's Labour Day celebrations were marred by widespread discontent as teachers and healthcare workers expressed frustration over unfulfilled promises and delayed reforms. Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has clarified that the recently announced 12 per cent wage increase applies broadly to all workers, not just those earning the minimum wage, and has outlined its implications for Kenyan workers. Archbishop Anthony Muheria of the Catholic Archdiocese of Nyeri has criticized President William Ruto over unfulfilled promises to the nation, while teachers and healthcare workers have expressed frustration over reforms that are delayed and agreements that remain unfulfilled.