Francis Atwoli addresses delegates during the 15th Quinquennial Governing Council Conference and Elections of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (Cotu) at Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu on March 14, 2026.
Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has secured a sixth term at the helm of the workers’ umbrella body, having been elected unopposed during a delegates’ conference at Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu on Saturday.
Over 250 delegates, from 47 affiliated trade unions representing over four million workers, attended the conference where the 76-year-old was handed a fresh mandate running to 2031.
In contrast to the heated contests that often characterise Kenyan elections, the Cotu poll was largely smooth and consensus-driven. Mr Atwoli retained the coveted position unopposed.
This marks his record-breaking sixth term in office since he first took the position in 2001, succeeding Joseph Mugalla. This cements his position as the longest-serving secretary general in Cotu’s history.
Mr Atwoli has also led the Kenya Plantation and Agricultural Workers Union (KPAWU), his parent union, for the past 32 years. Its headquarters are in Nakuru.
Observers say his re-election was the result of careful political manoeuvring and the strategic mobilisation of support among affiliate unions long before the formal election process began.
Mr Atwoli, who is known for his tactical approach to union politics, held a meeting with the leaders of 42 out of the 44 affiliated trade unions on January 6, just weeks before the grassroots and branch elections began.
After the meeting, the unions publicly endorsed him for another five-year term, effectively shutting out potential challengers.
“I am delighted by the backing I have received from the 42 affiliate unions for another five-year term in office. Together, in unity and solidarity, we will continue to defend workers’ rights and strengthen Cotu for the future,” said Mr Atwoli at the time.
This endorsement came as a surprise to many in the labour movement, as some unions had not yet held their branch elections, leaving leadership positions technically vacant and open to contest.
Francis Atwoli breaks into a celebratory dance after being re-elected Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (Cotu) at Tom Mboya Labour College on March 14, 2026.
The elections were held several months before the August 30 deadline set by the Registrar of Trade Unions for umbrella bodies such as Cotu and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to hold their elections.
Ms Ann Kanake, the Acting Registrar of Trade Unions, had instructed unions to hold their grassroots and national elections between January and June.
However, Mr Atwoli argued that, once the branch elections had been completed, the unions were free to proceed to the national level without waiting for the final deadline.
“The Registrar of Trade Unions’ circular on the election dates were only guidelines, not set in stone,” he said.
Some union leaders said the early scheduling of the Cotu elections caught many potential candidates by surprise.
Dr Edward Sigilai, a former chairman of the Bomet County Workers Union, said the veteran unionist had perfected the art of surprise in union politics.
“While other leaders were planning how to handle the upcoming elections, Atwoli had already chosen the date and venue and started the process. That is part of his political strength,” he said.
Mr Nelson Mwaniki, a Cotu executive board member, said Mr Atwoli’s early planning and his long-standing relationships with affiliate union leaders played a key role in securing his victory.
“While some potential opponents were preparing to engage with delegates later in the election cycle, Atwoli had already secured the venue, complied with regulatory requirements, and mobilised delegates,” he said.
Francis Atwoli (left) during the 15th Quinquennial Governing Council Conference and Elections of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (Cotu) at Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu on March 14, 2026.
He added that the outcome reflected strong confidence in Mr Atwoli’s leadership. “The vote of confidence in Mr Atwoli speaks volumes about the stability he has brought to the labour movement, and we expect that to continue over the next five years.”
Mr Atwoli outlined an ambitious agenda that includes expanding trade union membership, accelerating Cotu’s digital transformation, strengthening workers’ representation, and completing the modernisation of the Tom Mboya Labour College.
He said Cotu has already invested over Sh900 million in the college’s reconstruction and modernisation, describing it as a premier training institution for labour leaders in Africa.
Cotu is also rolling out digital platforms to improve service delivery to workers.
“We are introducing digital tools, including a workers’ support application, to enable employees to access information, report labour issues and receive assistance in real time,” Mr Atwoli further said.
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