Veteran trade unionist Francis Atwoli has suggested that President William Ruto might be the last Head of State he serves under as the Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu). Atwoli made the remarks during the burial of George Oduor, the longtime bodyguard of opposition leader Raila Odinga, in a speech reflecting on his lengthy public service career.
“I have had the opportunity to serve all Presidents of Kenya since independence. I have seen the government of Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, I have seen Mzee Daniel Moi’s government who we were with for 24 years, I have seen the government of Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and yours (William Ruto). Maybe your government will probably be the last I serve and return to Khwisero,” Atwoli stated.
The long-serving Cotu boss, first elected to the position in August 2001, has been a key figure in Kenya’s labour movement for over two decades. His leadership has often stirred public debate, especially around the issue of term limits within trade unions. Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana recently reignited this conversation, questioning whether such positions should be held indefinitely.
Kibwana’s comments came shortly after Atwoli and his wife, journalist Mary Kilobi, welcomed a newborn son. While congratulating the family, Kibwana humorously suggested that Cotu should grant Atwoli paternity leave and use that time to reflect on whether trade union leadership should have term limits.
Responding to the comment, Atwoli highlighted his contribution to Kenya’s labour laws, including advocating for paternity leave rights. He also noted that he and Kibwana are age-mates and shared that he was recently appointed a professor at a local university, further pointing to his evolving role in society.
Atwoli praised President Ruto for attending the funeral, noting that many past presidents might not have done so. “To say the truth, not all of these presidents I have served would have come to the funeral of someone like George,” he said.
As Atwoli hints at winding down his storied career, his legacy in labour advocacy remains a subject of national reflection and debate.
