COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli Wins Another Term After Landslide Victory

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Atwoli Secures Fresh Mandate With 42 Delegate Votes

The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has once again been re-elected to the powerful position after securing 42 votes from delegates during the latest COTU elections. The win extends his long-standing leadership at the umbrella body representing workers across Kenya.

Atwoli’s re-election now marks 25 years at the helm of COTU, having first assumed office in 2001. His continued stay has sparked mixed reactions among Kenyans, with some calling for generational change within the trade union movement, while others credit him for protecting workers’ rights over the years.

Atwoli Defends Long Stay at COTU

Responding to growing calls for retirement, Atwoli defended his leadership, arguing that experience remains crucial in navigating complex labour issues. He stated that his deep understanding of labour laws, industrial relations, and government engagement puts him in a strong position to effectively represent Kenyan workers.

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The veteran trade unionist emphasized that leadership at COTU is not about age but about the ability to deliver results, especially at a time when workers are grappling with high cost of living, job insecurity, and evolving labour markets.

Promises to Workers Under New Term

Following his victory, Atwoli pledged to intensify engagement with the government, employers, and international labour agencies. He promised to push for salary increments, improved working conditions, job security, and enforcement of labour rights across both public and private sectors.

He also reaffirmed COTU’s commitment to social dialogue as a tool for resolving disputes and ensuring workers’ voices are heard in national economic planning.

Francis Atwoli’s Leadership History

Francis Atwoli rose to national prominence through the labour movement and has remained one of Kenya’s most influential trade union leaders. Over the years, he has played a key role in shaping labour policies, minimum wage negotiations, and workplace reforms. His tenure has seen COTU become a major stakeholder in national governance, often consulted on labour and economic matters.

As he begins yet another term, all eyes will be on whether Atwoli delivers on his promises while addressing calls for leadership transition within the trade union movement.