NAIROBI, Kenya – The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) has warned politicians against undermining the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), accusing some legislators of making unsubstantiated claims that could erode public confidence in the institution.
COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli issued the warning as the National Assembly considered the Public Service Superannuation Scheme (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to streamline the governance and administration of the public service pension system.
In a communiqué, Atwoli said allegations targeting the NSSF risk damaging an institution relied upon by millions of Kenyan workers to secure their retirement.
He claimed some politicians had accused NSSF officers of demanding money from retirees without presenting evidence to support the allegations.
“What makes the parliamentary attacks even more unfortunate is that they completely disregard the remarkable transformation that NSSF has undergone over the past three years,” Atwoli said.
Atwoli Criticises Ichung’wah Over NSSF Remarks
Atwoli singled out Kikuyu MP and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, faulting him for leading criticism of the Bill and the Fund.
He urged Ichung’wah to exercise impartial leadership and defend policies that benefit Kenyans.
“It is precisely because of the respect we have for his leadership that we find his participation in these unfortunate remarks particularly disappointing,” Atwoli said.
The COTU chief called on lawmakers to debate the proposed legislation objectively, warning against statements that could weaken confidence in the management of workers’ retirement savings.
COTU Raises Concern Over Political Influence
Atwoli argued that NSSF’s growing financial strength could attract increased political interest from individuals seeking to influence the Fund’s management and investment decisions.
He urged the Fund’s management not to succumb to intimidation as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election.
COTU has two representatives on the NSSF Board of Trustees and says it will defend the interests of workers against allegations it considers unjustified.
The union’s position comes amid parliamentary scrutiny of pension governance and administration, with the Public Service Superannuation Scheme (Amendment) Bill reaching the Committee of the Whole House stage in October 2026.
