Atwoli pushes for social media regulation to protect national stability

Francis Atwoli, Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), has urged Kenya to regulate social media, warning that uncontrolled online platforms could endanger the country’s future.

Speaking during Cotu’s 60th annual prayer service held at ACK St Stephen’s Church in Makadara, Atwoli criticised the attitude of young people online and asked the church to take the lead in addressing the dangers of social media use.

Atwoli stressed that without proper regulation, social media could easily bring chaos to the nation.

"This thing called social media is controlled in China. China has regulated TikTok despite being their product, not like here in Kenya. The church must speak about TikTok, the church must speak about social media, about YouTube. The church must take the lead,” he said.

He noted that much of the content found online today does not align with Kenya’s aspirations for economic, social, and political growth.

Atwoli questioned the credibility of young social media users, accusing them of misleading the public without having real experience in the labour sector.

"Young men in social media have never worked anywhere. They have never been members of any trade union. You will see them commenting about trade union, about the Labour Cabinet Secretary, talking about discrimination," he said.

Reflecting on Kenya’s political history, Atwoli said the country has previously come close to critical turning points.

He recalled the 2007 post-election violence and the recent Gen Z-led demonstrations, saying they almost pushed the country into a crisis.

"Every country must go through a rebirth process. Kenya was almost going through a rebirth in 2007, and God rescued us. Recently, during the Gen Zs demonstrations, we were going to witness another rebirth, but God helped us. I don’t think whether God will be with us in the third rebirth," he said.

Atwoli also took the opportunity to advise elected officials to stay away from politics that fuel division and instead concentrate on rebuilding the economy.

He stressed the need for leadership that unites and steers the country towards prosperity.

The COTU prayer service was attended by Labour Principal Secretary Shadrack Mwangolo Mwadime, who represented Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua.

Makadara MP George Aladwa was present but did not address the congregation because the church does not allow politicians to speak during services.

The gathering comes ahead of Labour Day celebrations set for Thursday at Uhuru Gardens, where President William Ruto is expected to be the chief guest.

This year’s theme for Labour Day is "Self-reliance in production is the key to economic growth."