Atwoli Calls Out Kalonzo for Blaming CS Mudavadi Over Activists Arrested Abroad

Atwoli Calls Out Kalonzo for Blaming CS Mudavadi Over Activists Arrested Abroad

Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has launched a scathing attack on Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, accusing him of defending Kenyans allegedly misbehaving abroad and unfairly blaming the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In a strongly worded statement on Thursday, November 13, Atwoli questioned why Kalonzo, a former Foreign Affairs Minister, would ignore diplomatic procedures and shift responsibility to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s ministry.

“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.

Activists Abroad

Atwoli’s remarks came after reports emerged that some Kenyans had been detained overseas for allegedly exporting their activist behaviors to foreign nations. In some cases, their travel documents were cancelled, sparking outrage among opposition leaders who accused the government of failing to protect its citizens.

But Atwoli dismissed the criticism, cautioning Kenyans against blaming the government when they knowingly expose themselves to foreign legal consequences.

“Kenyans who travel to other countries with hidden motives should not seek empathy from fellow citizens when they face the law abroad,” he warned.

The veteran trade unionist disclosed that in the past six months, he had received numerous distress calls about Kenyans apprehended for sneaking out of the country to engage in activism abroad.

Protection for Law‑Abiding Workers

Atwoli emphasized that COTU would only champion the protection of Kenyan workers who are law‑abiding and performing their duties responsibly in foreign nations. He insisted that the government cannot be expected to shield individuals who deliberately flout international laws.

“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 boss stressed.

He advised Kenyans abroad to register themselves with Kenyan Embassies, High Commissions, Consulates, and Permanent Missions in their countries of residence or employment. This, he said, would ensure timely protection, assistance, and accountability in case of emergencies or disputes.

Political Undertones

Atwoli’s attack on Kalonzo is likely to stir political debate, especially as the opposition leader has been vocal in defending activists detained abroad. Analysts say the clash highlights growing tensions between government allies and opposition figures over Kenya’s foreign policy and the treatment of citizens overseas.

While Kalonzo has not yet responded to Atwoli’s remarks, his allies argue that the government has a duty to protect all Kenyans, regardless of the circumstances of their detention.

Conclusion

Atwoli’s fiery statement underscores the delicate balance between protecting citizens abroad and respecting international law. His call for proper documentation and adherence to diplomatic procedures reflects a broader push to safeguard Kenya’s reputation as a labour‑exporting nation.

As the debate rages on, the fate of Kenyans detained abroad remains a pressing issue, with the government under pressure to demonstrate both accountability and compassion.

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Atwoli Calls Out Kalonzo for Blaming CS Mudavadi Over Activists Arrested Abroad