Francis Atwoli Thanks Government Over Hands-Off Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Kenya) Vote
News Updated: 14 March 2026 12:51 EAT
Francis Atwoli re-elected as Cotu Secretary General for a sixth term
The Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Kenya), Francis Atwoli, has thanked the Kenyan government and political leaders for not interfering with the union’s internal elections, saying the move demonstrated respect for the independence of the labour movement.
Speaking after the union’s governing council elections, Atwoli said the political leadership allowed workers to conduct their democratic process freely without external influence. He noted that the decision strengthened confidence in the autonomy of trade unions in the country.
The veteran labour leader said the elections were organised and managed by union members themselves, with delegates from various affiliated unions participating in the voting process.
Atwoli described the peaceful conduct of the exercise as a positive example of how labour organisations can manage their internal affairs independently while maintaining transparency and credibility.
He also praised union delegates for maintaining discipline throughout the electoral process, saying the smooth exercise reflected unity among workers’ representatives across the country.
The COTU boss said the independence of trade unions is crucial in protecting workers’ rights and ensuring that labour organisations remain focused on advocating for better wages, improved working conditions and social protections.
The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Kenya) remains the umbrella body representing dozens of trade unions in Kenya and plays a key role in championing labour rights and engaging the government on policies affecting workers.
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD