COTU SAYS YES

The umbrella body for trade Unions (COTU) has thrown its weight behind the Proposed Draft Constitution.

COTU Secretary General, Francis Atwoli, said he will lead workers in a countrywide YES campaign ahead of the referendum.

Atwoli accused church leaders for taking hard line positions even before consulting the Christian community, whom they represent.

The COTU boss also urged retired President, Daniel Moi to keep off the referendum debate “but rest and watch the game.”

He dismissed Agriculture Minister, William Ruto’s quest to lead a NO vote during the referendum saying he is out of touch with reality.

“We are eagerly waiting for him. Politicians’ views do not reflect the wishes of Kenyans. This constitution must go through referendum. From our recent rallies across the country, we know Kenyans want a new constitution,” he said.

He said COTU would soon launch a YES Campaign at Nairobi’s Kamukunji grounds.
On the controversial clause allowing disciplined forces to picket and demonstrate, Atwoli said the forces have right to form a union that is affiliated to COTU to fight for their welfare.

He said politicians were misrepresenting facts in the proposed constitution to poison Kenyans against the draft.Lauding Kibaki and Raila’s position to support the new draft, he urged the government to invest intensively in civic education so as to enlighten Kenyans on the new laws ahead of the referendum.