The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) has commended President William Ruto for his decision to terminate the controversial Adani Group deals.
In a statement on Friday, COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli described the move as a “bold, timely, and decisive action.”
“This presidential proclamation, made during Thursday’s State of the Nation Address in Parliament, has restored the confidence of workers across various sectors, especially those represented by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) under the Kenya Airports Authority,” Atwoli said.
He highlighted concerns raised by KAWU members regarding the deal, particularly fears that Indian operators would take over the management of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for more than 30 years under unfavorable contract terms.
With the cancellation of the agreements, Atwoli emphasized the need for inclusive consultations with Kenyan workers.
“We wish to remind all state agencies and the government that proper consultation with workers is essential before undertaking any strategic reforms,” he added.
Atwoli lauded Ruto’s action as a clear demonstration of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s commitment to fighting corruption and addressing questionable agreements.
He further assured that COTU would continue advocating for social dialogue among the government, employers, and workers to foster inclusive economic growth and ensure Kenyan workers’ interests are safeguarded.
The Head of State canceled Adani Group’s deal involving JKIA and another agreement with the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO).
Ruto explained that the decision followed credible evidence presented by investigative agencies and information from partner states linking the Indian conglomerate to corruption.
“Honorable Members, I have stated before, and I reiterate today, that in the face of credible evidence or information on corruption, I will not hesitate to act decisively,” Ruto declared.
The President also directed the concerned ministries to immediately begin seeking alternative partners to move forward with the critical projects.
The decision came shortly after reports emerged that Gautam Adani, the billionaire owner of the Adani Group, had been charged with fraud by U.S. authorities.
“Based on new information provided by investigative agencies and partner nations, the procuring agencies in the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum are directed to cancel the ongoing procurement process for the JKIA expansion public-private partnership,” Ruto said.
He underscored that the development aligns with Article 10 of the Constitution, which emphasizes transparency and accountability in governance.
