Francis Atwoli has been re-elected Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Kenya) (COTU-K), securing a sixth term during a delegates’ meeting held in Kisumu on Saturday, March 14.
The veteran labour leader, who has led the country’s largest workers’ umbrella body since 2001, retained the position unopposed during the conference held at the Tom Mboya Labour College.
Approximately 250 delegates attended the meeting, representing 47 affiliated trade unions that participated in the exercise.
Atwoli’s unchallenged victory effectively grants him another five-year term at the helm of the influential labour federation.
Celebrations erupted shortly after the announcement, with delegates breaking into song and dance to mark the veteran unionist’s continued leadership.
Over the years, Atwoli has remained one of the most prominent voices on labour matters in Kenya, advocating for workers’ rights and pushing for stronger collective bargaining agreements both locally and across the region.
However, his prolonged stay in office has also attracted criticism from some quarters, with critics arguing that the federation needs fresh leadership and new ideas.
His re-election comes at a time when many Kenyan workers are grappling with a rising cost of living, job insecurity and increasing unemployment.
While accepting the mandate, Atwoli said the renewed term reflects the confidence union members have in his leadership, pledging to continue championing the interests of workers across the country.
Supporters within the union welcomed the outcome, describing it as a victory for stability and experience given his long record in the labour movement.
With Atwoli now beginning his sixth term, attention is expected to turn to how COTU leadership will address emerging labour challenges, including the growing crisis of youth unemployment in Kenya.