Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has taken a swipe at Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka for allegedly defending Kenyans caught misbehaving abroad.
In a statement on Thursday, November 13, Atwoli accused the opposition leader of turning a blind eye to the diplomatic procedures governing the conduct of foreigners, including Kenyans staying abroad.
The COTU boss questioned why Kalonzo was blaming the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the poor conduct displayed by some Kenyans living in foreign nations.
This is after reports emerged that some Kenyans were exporting their local activist behaviours to other nations, resulting in their detention and even cancellation of their travel documents.
"I am surprised that some Kenyans are now blaming the Kenyan government, while when they go to foreign countries, they do so without following the proper channels, knowing all too well that they go there with ulterior motives," Atwoli said.
"Surprisingly, a seasoned politician like Kalonzo Musyoka, who once served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, turns a blind eye to diplomatic procedures and blames the Ministry of Foreign Affairs," he added.
In his speech, Atwoli cautioned Kenyans who travel to other countries with hidden motives against blaming the government and seeking empathy from their fellow citizens.
He disclosed that over the past six months, he has received distress calls about Kenyans apprehended for sneaking out of the country to export their activism and expose themselves to foreign legal consequences.
Atwoli noted that the trade union will only champion for the protection of Kenyan workers who are law-abiding while performing their duties in foreign nations.
The COTU boss went ahead to advise Kenyans abroad to register themselves with Kenyan Embassies, High Commissions, Consulates and Permanent Missions in their respective countries of residence or employment.
This is so that in the event of any challenges, emergencies, or disputes, the Kenyan government can offer timely protection, assistance, and accountability.
"As Kenya increasingly positions itself as a labour-exporting nation, it is a matter of importance that our workers abroad are properly documented and recognised through official government channels," the COTU Sec Gen emphasised.
