Francis Atwoli, the veteran trade unionist and long-serving Secretary-General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU-Kenya), is the most wanted and preferred candidate to run for the sixth term owing to his proven track record, unmatched experience, and tangible contributions to workers’ welfare.
The longest serving SG since 2001, has once again secured overwhelming support from affiliated unions. The endorsement, underscored the deep trust union leaders place in his leadership.
On January 6, 2026, all 42 general secretaries of COTU’s member unions unanimously endorsed him to run for a sixth term in the elections scheduled for August 2026.
The Unionist among them the 42 general secretaries from affiliated trade Unions drummed up their support during a luncheon hosted by Atwoli.
Through his social media, Atwoli stated that the Unionists unanimously endorsed him to lead them into COTU’S August election.
Previously, the Unionists expressed satisfaction with Atwoli’s experience, growth and his strong advocacy skills thus downplaying claims that the 74 year-old was to retire.
According to Moss Ndiema, the secretary-general of Kenya Aviation Workers Union (Kawu), Atwoli is their choice due to the vast knowldge and experience both locally and internationally.
“It is our choice, decision, and it is the Kenyan workers’ voice that we still want Francis Atwoli. This is purely democracy and Nobody can fault our decisions on any grounds. We love him. He has experience, knowledge, and what the Kenyan worker needs,” Ndiema said
He assured that his experience in the labour related issues for the last 24 years accords him a direct ticket for another term.
“Cotu constitution has no age limit and we attend the international conferences where we come across people who are older than Atwoli by far. Our secretary general may look the oldest in our local settings but internationally, he is very young,” Mr Ndiena said.
Mr Atwoli previously served as the General Secretary of the Kenya Plantation and Agricultural Workers Union and also in a senior position at the Union of Posts and Telecommunication Employment.
Atwoli’s tenure has transformed COTU from a relatively modest organization with around 300,000 members in 2001 to a powerhouse representing over 4 million workers today.
Unions credit him with mainstreaming labor rights into Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, pushing for progressive labor laws, and advocating for decent work, better wages, and social justice.
His vocal representation extends beyond Kenya’s borders. Atwoli holds influential positions in international bodies, amplifying Kenyan workers’ voices globally.
Supporters argue that his efforts have fostered industrial peace, protected workers’ dignity, and secured policy wins that benefit millions.
Atwoli Further noted that unions have repeatedly insisted that they “still want” him. Executive board members have echoed this, declaring him “too young to retire” and emphasizing his indispensable wisdom in navigating complex labor issues.
Atwoli is perceived as the ideal defender of workers’ rights amid economic challenges, government policies, and global pressures.
