Nairobi, April 28 -- He has exhibited a larger-than-life personality at the helm of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu).

Mr Francis Atwoli, now in his 23rd year as Cotu Secretary-General, appears to be facing opposition his supporters see as an elaborate scheme by the government to cut him to size.

The Sunday Nation has learnt of attempts to reach out to the leadership of the Trade Unions Congress of Kenya (Tuc-Ke) - led by Nyatike MP Tom Odege (chairman) and Dr Charles Mukhwaya (secretary-general) - to plan a parallel Labour Day event at Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in a bid to rival the Uhuru Gardens event organised by Mr Atwoli.

Contacted on Saturday, Mr Atwoli said he is confident President William Ru...