Kenya's Trade Union Leader Secures Sixth Consecutive Term After 25 Years in Power
Kisumu, 14 March 2026
Francis Atwoli has achieved an unprecedented sixth consecutive term as COTU Secretary General, extending his leadership of Kenya’s largest trade union body to over two decades. Running unopposed at elections held in Kisumu, Atwoli has overseen remarkable growth since 2001, expanding COTU membership from 300,000 to over four million workers whilst establishing more than 4,000 collective bargaining agreements. His tenure has witnessed significant institutional development, including the expansion of Employment and Labour Relations Courts from three to over 25 judges nationwide, and the establishment of a leading labour training centre in Africa.
A Quarter-Century Legacy in Trade Union Leadership
The election, which took place on Saturday, 8 March 2026, at Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu, saw Atwoli run completely unopposed for the position [1]. This marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s labour movement, as Atwoli first assumed office in 2001, succeeding Joseph Mugalla [1]. The veteran trade unionist expressed gratitude for the independence of the electoral process, stating: “I want to thank the government and the political leadership in this country. I also thank politicians who kept away from the trade union elections. That showed respect for the independence of the labour movement” [1]. The growth under Atwoli’s stewardship has been remarkable, with COTU membership expanding by 1233.333 per cent since he took office, transforming the organisation from approximately 300,000 members in 2001 to over four million workers today [1].
Institutional Achievements and Constitutional Impact
Atwoli’s tenure has coincided with substantial institutional reforms within Kenya’s labour framework. Under his leadership, the Employment and Labour Relations Court has expanded dramatically from just three judges to over 25 judges nationwide [1]. This expansion has facilitated the registration of over 4,000 collective bargaining agreements every two years with the Ministry of Labour, which Atwoli credits with improving “salaries and working conditions in many companies” [1]. Perhaps most significantly, COTU played a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, securing crucial protections for workers including Article 41, which guarantees the right to strike and collective bargaining [1]. The organisation has also developed the COTU Labour College in Kisumu into what is now recognised as a leading labour training centre in Africa [1].
Unopposed Victory and Celebration
The 15th Quinquennial Governing Council Delegates Conference and elections demonstrated the consolidated support Atwoli enjoys within the trade union movement [2]. Union members had travelled from different counties since 5 January 2026 to witness the election process [1]. Following his victory, Atwoli celebrated by dancing with delegates at the election venue, marking another milestone in his decades-long leadership [GPT]. Other officials were also re-elected unopposed, including Rajabu Mwondi, Rev. Joel Chebii, Francis Murage, Benson Okwaro, Ernest Nadome, Carolyne Rutto, Rebecca Nyathogora, Wasington Adongo, Francis Wangara, Joseph Nyabiya, and Nelson Mwaniki [1]. The unopposed nature of these elections reflects the stability and continuity within COTU’s leadership structure.
International Recognition and Future Outlook
Atwoli’s leadership has gained international recognition, with Kenya’s commitment to labour issues being demonstrated at the highest levels of government. He noted that “President Ruto even led the Kenyan delegation to the International Labour Conference in Geneva and addressed the plenary session. This demonstrates the importance Kenya places on labour issues” [1]. Reflecting on his achievements, Atwoli stated: “I promised that we would run this organisation professionally, and today we are doing exactly that” [1]. As he embarks on his sixth term, Atwoli’s continued leadership suggests stability for Kenya’s trade union movement, with his track record indicating a focus on institutional development, membership growth, and maintaining the independence of the labour movement from political interference.