Long-serving Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has hinted that his time at the helm of Kenya’s labour movement is coming to an end. Speaking on May 14, 2025, during a Cotu meeting ahead of Labour Day celebrations, Atwoli said Kenyans would only realise his impact once he exits the stage.
Atwoli, who has led Cotu since August 2001, remarked that many people underestimate the strength of Cotu within Africa and internationally. “Cotu in Africa is one of the most powerful trade union organisations. If Cotu spearheaded the first African to pick an SG in the international organisation, it is not a joke,” he said.
He warned that those unfamiliar with the structures of international trade unions may quickly dismiss Cotu’s significance once he leaves. “Soon, I will exit with all this group. That is when you will start realising there is something amiss in Kenya’s labour movement. You will see,” Atwoli stated.
Reflecting on his long career, Atwoli noted that he has served under all Kenyan presidents since independence, from Mzee Jomo Kenyatta to the current President William Ruto. He hinted that Ruto’s administration would likely be the last he serves before returning to his home in Khwisero.
Atwoli’s tenure has often sparked debate, with many Kenyans questioning how long he intended to hold onto the influential position. However, he defended his leadership, pointing to key achievements like securing paternity leave for Kenyan workers and pushing through five significant sets of labour laws.
Throughout his career, Atwoli has been a polarising figure, praised by some for his fiery advocacy for workers’ rights and criticised by others for overstaying his welcome. Nonetheless, his impending retirement marks a major turning point for Kenya’s labour movement.
As Cotu prepares for a future without Atwoli at the helm, there is growing speculation about who will succeed him and whether they will manage to uphold the union’s influence both locally and internationally.
