Atwoli Hints at Possible Exit as COTU Secretary-General

Francis Atwoli, the long-serving and influential Secretary-General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), has indicated that his tenure in labour leadership may be drawing to a close. 

Speaking at the funeral of George Oduor, a bodyguard of opposition leader Raila Odinga, Atwoli reflected on his extensive career and suggested that President William Ruto’s administration could be his last as COTU Secretary-General. Atwoli, who has held the position since 2001, emphasizes his unique perspective, having served under every Kenyan president since the country's independence. 

"I have had the opportunity to serve all Presidents of Kenya since independence," he stated, acknowledging his experiences with the governments of Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and now William Ruto. 

“Maybe your government will be the last I serve under before I return to Khwisero,” he added, referring to his birthplace.

President Ruto's presence at Oduor's funeral drew commendation from Atwoli, who noted that such attendance by previous leaders was uncommon. Throughout his tenure, Atwoli has been a prominent advocate for workers' rights, both in Kenya and internationally. He also serves as the General Secretary of the Kenya Plantation and Agricultural Workers Union (KPAWU), Chairman of the East African Trade Union Confederation (EATUC), President of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU), and Vice President of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC). 

His leadership has significantly shaped labour policies, notably including the introduction of paternity leave for Kenyan workers. However, Atwoli's long tenure has also faced scrutiny, particularly concerning the absence of term limits within COTU. Critics, including former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana, have suggested it may be time for new leadership within the organization. Kibwana recently congratulated Atwoli on the birth of his son while simultaneously questioning whether trade union leadership should be a "life tenure affair.”

Atwoli has defended his record by pointing to his contributions to workers' welfare. He emphasizes his role in securing paternity leave for Kenyan workers as part of his broader efforts to enact progressive labour laws. Atwoli also highlights his recent appointment as a professor at a Kenyan university, emphasizing his continued engagement in public and intellectual life. While Atwoli has not announced a specific retirement date, his recent remarks suggest a potential shift towards focusing on his personal life and returning to his roots in Khwisero.