Song, dance and jubilant celebrations broke out among delegates and supporters after veteran trade unionist Francis Atwoli was re-elected as Secretary-General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) for a sixth consecutive term.
The announcement was followed by loud cheers, singing and dancing from union members who had gathered for the organisation’s leadership elections, marking another milestone in Atwoli’s long and influential career within Kenya’s labour movement.
Sixth SG and Longest Labour Leader
Atwoli has led COTU since 2001, making him one of the longest-serving labour leaders in the region. During his tenure, he has been a central figure in negotiations over workers’ rights, wages, and labour policies affecting millions of Kenyan workers.
His continued leadership reflects the strong support he enjoys among affiliated unions within COTU, the umbrella body that represents dozens of trade unions across the country.
Moments after the election results were confirmed, supporters erupted into celebration, with traditional songs, chants and dances filling the venue.
Videos circulating online showed delegates waving union flags, clapping and embracing as they congratulated the veteran unionist for securing another term at the helm of the powerful labour organisation.
The jubilant scenes underscored the symbolic significance of the moment for many union members who credit Atwoli with strengthening the voice of workers in national conversations.
Influence Beyond Labour Issues
Beyond his role within COTU, Atwoli has remained an influential voice in Kenya’s political and economic debates. Over the years, he has frequently weighed in on issues ranging from labour reforms to national politics.
Under his leadership, COTU has often positioned itself as a key stakeholder in policy discussions affecting employment, labour protections and economic development.
Support and Criticism
COTU Secretary-Generals Since 2001 🇰🇪2001 — Francis Atwoli 🇰🇪
2002 — Francis Atwoli 🇰🇪
2003 — Francis Atwoli 🇰🇪
2004 — Francis Atwoli 🇰🇪
2005 — Francis Atwoli 🇰🇪
2006 — Francis Atwoli 🇰🇪
2007 — Francis Atwoli 🇰🇪
2008 — Francis Atwoli 🇰🇪
2009 — Francis Atwoli 🇰🇪
2010 — Francis… pic.twitter.com/lyGywBiQ8F— Arnold (@arnoldi254) March 13, 2026
While many labour leaders praise Atwoli’s experience and ability to mobilise workers’ interests, his long tenure has also attracted criticism from some quarters.
Critics argue that leadership renewal is necessary within labour organisations to allow younger leaders to emerge. Supporters, however, say his experience and established networks continue to benefit Kenyan workers.
With his re-election secured, Atwoli is expected to continue steering COTU through emerging challenges facing workers, including economic pressures, job creation concerns, and changing labour dynamics in the digital economy.
For now, however, supporters remain in celebratory mood — with song and dance marking yet another chapter in the long leadership journey of one of Kenya’s most recognisable labour figures.
