President William Ruto has revealed how he dealt with COTU secretary general Francis Atwoli over disputes involving the National Social Security Fund. In a recent public address, Ruto said Atwoli used to trouble his side with court cases during Uhuru Kenyatta’s time.
As Atwoli was close to Uhuru, Ruto felt he could not act strongly then. But once in office, Ruto called him directly and told him to stop the games. Since that talk, Atwoli has stayed in line, and Ruto has pushed reforms to make NSSF better.
Ruto made the comments during a speech in Mt Kenya. He spoke in Swahili, saying, “Ule Atwoli alikuwa anatusumbua kutupeleka kotini. Akiwa rafiki ya Uhuru nilikuwa nashindwa kumskuma kwa hii mambo ya NSSF. Lakini vile niliingia kwa ofisi hivi, nilimuita nikamuambia awache mchezo; mimi ndio kusema. Tangu hiyo siku akashika laini, na sasa nimebadilisha NSSF iwe bora.” The crowd cheered as he shared the story. Ruto used it to show his direct style in handling issues.
The NSSF has long faced problems. Workers and unions like COTU complained about low returns, poor management and delayed payments. Atwoli took the government to court several times under Uhuru. He pushed for higher contributions and better benefits. Those cases dragged on. Ruto said the friendship between Atwoli and Uhuru made it hard to resolve then.
Once Ruto took power in 2022, things changed. He increased contribution rates in 2023. The move aimed to grow the fund for better pensions. But it faced resistance from employers and workers.
Atwoli criticised it at first. Ruto’s call seems to have calmed that. COTU now supports some reforms. The fund has new leadership and digital systems for claims.
Atwoli has not responded to Ruto’s remarks yet. The union boss keeps a high profile on worker rights. He attends events with Ruto often now. Their relationship looks cordial in public.
This revelation shows Ruto’s approach to opposition voices. He brings some into government deals. Atwoli stays influential in labour matters. The story highlights how personal talks shape policy behind the scenes.
NSSF serves millions of Kenyans. Recent changes include higher employer matches and online portals. Returns improved slightly last year. But challenges remain, like investing funds wisely. Ruto promised more gains ahead.
The speech drew laughs from the audience. Ruto used it to connect with locals facing daily costs.
Ruto’s style mixes direct words with development promises. In Central, he launched projects like roads and markets. The Atwoli tale added a personal touch.
Kenya’s labour scene stays active. Unions like COTU balance support and criticism of government. Ruto’s cabinet includes former opponents. That broad approach aims for stability.
This moment reminds me how politics works in Kenya. Old rivals become allies. Court cases give way to talks. NSSF reforms continue as a key test. Workers watch the fund closely. Better management means secure retirement. Ruto’s changes face review in coming years.
The speech ended with calls for unity. Ruto left for another event. The story spreads online and in conversations. Atwoli might reply soon. For now, Ruto’s version stands. It shows confidence in his leadership.
NSSF history includes scandals before. Clean-ups happened under different governments. Progress is slow but ongoing. Ruto’s direct handling of Atwoli fits his image. He says what he thinks. Supporters like that. Critics say it skips process.
