Tear-gassing pupils was barbaric: Cotu

Kenya: The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) has condemned Monday's tear-gassing of pupils of Langata Road Primary school in Nairobi, terming the action as barbaric.

Cotu Secretary General Francis Atwoli said the incident is characteristic of a lawless country, a move that could take Kenya back to the dark days.

"The incident in which innocent school-going children were tear-gassed and forced to flee for their lives following their protest is reminiscent of a lawless country and should truly send every Kenyan into deep thoughts on where we as a county are heading," said Atwoli.

In a press statement, Atwoli decried corruption and land grabbing, saying these have increased to unprecedented levels, with no stern action being taken against the culprits.

"Individuals who have acquired immense authority are on an all-out grabbing spree," he added.

The Cotu boss called on President Uhuru Kenyatta to take stern action and rein in on all land grabbers and their accomplices to avoid an imminent backlash from Kenyans.