Francis Atwoli, Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya) [COTU (K)], has been unanimously re-elected as the Deputy President of the Commonwealth Trade Union Group (CTUG), the most influential trade union body within the Commonwealth.
CTUG is a network of national trade union centres from over 40 Commonwealth countries, representing more than 70 million workers.
Established in 1979 as the Commonwealth Trade Union Council (CTUC) and renamed CTUG in 2004, the group plays a critical role in shaping labour policy and advocating for workers’ rights across the Commonwealth.
Following his re-election, Dr. Atwoli expressed gratitude for the renewed mandate, calling it a reaffirmation of confidence in his leadership and dedication to advancing workers’ interests globally.
“I am deeply honoured to have been re-elected to this important position. CTUG continues to be a powerful voice for workers across the Commonwealth, and I remain committed to ensuring that the concerns and aspirations of our members are heard at the highest levels of decision-making,” he said.
CTUG holds a unique position in influencing policy within the Commonwealth, with special representation at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings (CHOGM).
During its most recent engagement in Apia, Samoa, in October 2024, CTUG played a pivotal role in shaping labour-related resolutions that were later adopted by Heads of Stat.
Dr. Atwoli, who also serves as Vice President of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) in Brussels, reaffirmed his commitment to championing the rights of workers both in Kenya and internationally.
He also congratulated Ms. Toni Moore of Barbados on her election as President of CTUG, expressing optimism for even greater achievements under her leadership.
