Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General (SG) Francis Atwoli has revealed that he will likely retire after President William Ruto's tenure.
Speaking during the burial service of George Oduor, Raila Odinga's bodyguard and aide, on Saturday, Atwoli revealed that he has served under the tenures of all presidents in Kenya, but Ruto’s presidency might be the last.
“I have had the opportunity to serve all the presidents of Kenya since independence. I served Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel Arap Moi—who was our president for 24 years—Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and now you, President William Ruto. And maybe your government will be the last I serve in as COTU SG, before I retire back to Khwisero,” Atwoli stated.
Atwoli’s tenure at COTU has been a subject of public debate, with many Kenyans questioning how long he intends to remain in office.
Atwoli has served as COTU Secretary-General for over two decades. He assumed the position in August 2001 and has since been active in the labour movement, where he has been re-elected multiple times.
Over the years, Atwoli’s tenure has been characterised by strong advocacy for workers’ rights, social justice, and economic development.
One of the individuals who has questioned Atwoli’s prolonged stay in office is former Makueni County Governor Kivutha Kibwana, who, while congratulating Atwoli on the birth of his latest child, challenged him to consider retirement.
“I heartily congratulate the COTU Secretary-General, Francis Atwoli, and his family on the new addition to their family. COTU Kenya should grant their Secretary-General a well-deserved paternity leave, during which they can also discuss: Should COTU and trade union leadership be a lifetime tenure?” Kibwana posed.
Responding to the calls by the former governor, Atwoli revealed that he was diligent at his work, and his skills were still much needed in the country.
He further likened his tenure as COTU Secretary General to that of the Pope, emphasizing the longevity and dedication required for such a role.
He argued that his experience and wisdom were essential for advocating workers' rights effectively.
''Serving as the SG COTU (K) is a calling. It is akin to a Catholic Priest rising the ranks to become a Pope in Vatican. Our terms and conditions of serve are pegged on the calling by God. And so long as I am still having the ability to serve and my colleagues are still enjoying my service they will continue to elect me until that time when they think otherwise,'' Atwoli alleged.
