Atwoli and Kivutha Kibwana trade barbs over COTU tenure
Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) secretary general has faulted former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana for terming his tenure at the union a lifetime affair.
In a statement on X on Friday, March 28, 2025, Kibwana congratulated Atwoli for his newborn son, Atwoli Junior, asking the veteran unionist to get a paternity leave. During the leave, Kibwana suggested that they should discuss if Atwoli’s tenure at the helm of COTU should be a lifetime affair.
“I heartily congratulate the @AtwoliDza family for the new arrival in their family. @COTU_K should give their Secretary General a well deserved Paternity Leave during which they can also discuss: Should COTU and trade union leadership be a life tenure affair?” Kibwana wrote.
Atwoli fired back at the professor, accusing him of being biased following his recent appointment as a professor of lay at a local university, despite being agemates with him.
“Thanks prof. First, I have fought for Kenyan workers to receive paternity leave as part of my work to bring about the five (5) sets of Labour laws. You realize that these laws and the Constitution of Kenya 2010, as in Article 41, have empowered the Kenyan worker above all else in the region. Second, you and me are age mates,” Atwoli stated.
“I just saw you being appointed as a professor of Law at Daystar University the other day. So, prof, make me understand, when does your profession come to and end? Can a professor really stop reading, teaching and writing? When will you stop engaging your mind?”
Atwoli’s tenure at COTU
Atwoli was re-elected unopposed as the secretary general of COTU for the fifth time in April 2021.
Speaking during the 2024 Labour Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, Atwoli, who has served in the position for 24 years, said that despite his old age his competence has helped to better the rights of Kenyan workers.
“We are busy with employers in board rooms negotiating for good terms and conditions of service of our members,” he said.
“In my own union this year I signed more than 44 CBAs to cushion workers from the cost of living and some say ati Awoli amekaa tu pale ni mzee (Alwoli has stayed there for long). Ni mzee wa ujuzi, mzee wa kisasa.“
Atwoli hinted that he is serving his last term at COTU.
“Matters COTU leadership is a COTU constitutional issue and not an Atwoli issue. As of now, I am in office serving my last term,” he said in 2024.
Atwoli was first elected to the helm of the union in 2001.
Author
Francis Muli
Francis Muli is a passionate digital journalist with over seven years of experience in crafting compelling stories across various platforms. His major focus is in business, politics and current affairs. He brings a keen eye for detail and a commitment to uncovering the truth. He has contributed to leading publications across the country. When not chasing stories, you can find Muli exploring new technologies, attending local events, or reading fiction. Connect with Francis Muli on X @FMuliKE and Facebook (Francis Muli) to follow his latest stories and insights.
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