Why African workers should support Raila's bid for AUC top job

ODM leader Raila Odinga during the launch of his AUC chairmanship bid in Nairobi. [File, Standard]

With a population of over 1.5 billion people, unemployment rate of 6.3 per cent and an informal sector of 83.1 per cent, the African continent stands at a critical juncture, where the future of our economies, the dignity of our workers, and respect for labour rights demand visionary leadership.

In this light, the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU), representing 60 affiliates and 25 million workers across Africa, will hold a meeting in Accra, Ghana, between October 9 and 12. During this meeting, OATUU has invited Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo and Raila Odinga as a chief guest and a key note speaker respectively. OATUU is expected to endorse the AUC candidature of Raila considering his history and eight-point vision for Africa.

In his vision, which resonates deeply with the ideal and mission of OATUU, Raila underscores the centrality of sustainable and equitable socio-economic growth as a foundation for Africa’s development. This means creation of jobs, reduction of poverty and enhancing the welfare of workers is at the centre of Raila’s action plan. This is why African governments must rally behind Raila.

Further, Raila has also committed to work closely with African governments to reduce over-reliance on external funding. As workers, we believe that huge debts negatively affect African workers, thus the political instability that has been witnessed in numerous African countries. In fact, OATUU firmly believes that huge debts remain the major reason for heightened unemployment, especially among women and youth. As such, OATUU continues to urge trade unions in Africa to remain a vital voice in matters finance and debt so that workers are not left to carry the heavy burden of economic miscalculations that result in high external debts.

Noting that trade should be grown in Africa through establishing common market and boosting intra-African trade, Raila speaks to the hearts of African trade union leaders who have over the years called for a robust conversation on common markets for the various regional economic blocs in Africa.

At the same time, OATUU believes that with the chairmanship of Raila, a more meaningful conversation shall be held on the inclusion of labour rights provision in various trade agreements and an express provision of the same in the African Continental Free Trade Area. 

Additionally, trade unions across Africa have been engaged in numerous campaigns for the ratification of International Labour Organisation Convention 190 which speaks to violence and harassment in the world of work.

This ongoing campaign aligns with Raila’s promise on an all – out war against marginalisation, exclusion and discrimination against women and girls. 

Away from his vision and agenda, Raila has long been a steadfast ally of workers, a defender of labour rights, and a proponent of strong, independent trade unions. Over the years, COTU has always had an easy brotherly relationship with Raila considering he is a man who not only understands the place of trade unions in our history but also appreciates the major roles played by unions in empowering workers.

Should he be elected AUC chairperson, Raila’s leadership will be crucial in reviving the African Union Social Affairs Commission. This commission has historically played a leading role in fostering social dialogue among African workers, employers, and governments. Under his stewardship, we are confident that this commission will regain its prominence, ensuring that the welfare and rights of workers are consistently prioritised in the continental agenda. 

Moreover, Raila’s election as AUC chairperson will bring a renewed focus on supporting OATUU. With Raila at the helm, we can expect a strengthened partnership and solidarity that will enhance the respect and enforcement of workers’ rights, a cause that OATUU has championed for decades.