COTU backs Atwoli for 24th term

Nairobi, Kenya – The Executive Committee of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU-K) has thrown its weight behind long-serving Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, endorsing him for another term at the helm of Kenya’s umbrella labor movement.

Experienced worker?

Atwoli, 74, has led the organization since 2001, becoming one of the most recognizable voices in Kenya’s labor landscape. His endorsement by the union’s top organ effectively silences speculation about his potential retirement and underscores a collective preference for tested leadership amid evolving labor dynamics.

Addressing the media, Kenya Aviation Workers Union Secretary-General Moss Ndiema emphasized that the endorsement was a reflection of democratic consensus among COTU affiliates, not individual bias or internal manipulation.

“This is the voice of the Kenyan worker. We believe Atwoli remains the best-suited leader to champion labor rights. His legacy, experience, and institutional memory are invaluable at a time when workers face increasing socio-economic pressures,” Ndiema remarked.

While some critics have called for fresh leadership within the labor movement to better reflect the country’s youthful workforce, Ndiema dismissed such views as overlooking the strategic value of Atwoli’s domestic and international experience in labor affairs.

He argued that Atwoli’s deep understanding of worker rights, policy negotiation, and international labor standards gives him a unique advantage as COTU seeks to safeguard worker interests in a shifting economic climate.

The committee also welcomed Atwoli’s earlier commitment to facilitating internal elections, reaffirming their support for his leadership and underscoring that no alternative candidates have emerged from within the board.

“He announced on April 18 that a formal election notice would be issued soon. We are fully aligned and prepared. Our endorsement is unified and clear,” another board member stated.

In a pointed response to external critics, the committee condemned what it termed as “politically motivated interference” aimed at destabilizing the union. Leaders called on detractors to respect COTU’s autonomy and the will of its affiliates, warning against attempts to sow division ahead of the forthcoming electoral process.

Francis Atwoli’s stewardship of COTU has often attracted both admiration and controversy. His advocates hail his staunch defense of workers’ rights and high-level lobbying, while critics question the longevity of his tenure. Nonetheless, with this latest endorsement, it is evident that within the union’s inner circle, trust in his leadership remains firmly intact.