Everything you need to know about COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli

Francis Atwoli is one of Kenya’s most prominent labour leaders, serving as the Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU).  With a career spanning several decades, Atwoli has become a key figure in public discourse,  labor rights advocacy, and political activism in the country. His commanding presence, bold statements, and charismatic personality have made him a controversial public figure and respected leader.

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Here is everything you need to know about the labour leader.

Early life and background

Francis Atwoli was born in Khwisero, Kakamega County, on June 6, 1949. Atwoli’s early life was defined by determination and hard work, coming from a humble family. Before joining St Mary’s Kibabii Secondary School, where his leadership skills began to sprout, he had attended local schools.

He later received specialised training in trade unionism, management, and labour relations locally and internationally. This training laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to improving the welfare of Kenyan workers.

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Atwoli’s rise

Atwoli began his career as a technician at the East African Post and Telecommunications Corporation in the 1960s. His activism soon caught the attention of union leaders, and he quickly rose through the ranks of the labour movement.

He served as a senior assistant secretary general of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) before becoming the general secretary of the Kenya Plantation and Agricultural Workers Union (KPAWU).

This powerful position put him at the centre of labor negotiations affecting thousands of agricultural workers across the country.

In 2001, Atwoli was elected as the Secretary General of COTU (K), succeeding the late Joseph Joy Mugalla.

Since then, he has been re-elected several times, making him one of the longest-serving trade union leaders in Kenya’s history.

Under his leadership, COTU has become a formidable institution, influencing political discourse, national labor policies, and wage negotiations.

Atwoli’s achievements and advocacy

Atwoli’s impact on Kenya’s labour landscape cannot be overstated. He has consistently advocated for better wages, safer working conditions, and respect for workers’ rights. 

He played a pivotal role in implementing Kenya’s minimum wage policy and continues to champion annual wage reviews that reflect the cost of living.

Beyond domestic issues, Atwoli has also elevated Kenya’s voice on the international stage. He serves as a vice president of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and the president of the Organization of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU), positions that highlight his influence beyond Kenya’s borders.

He has also been a vocal critic of unfair labour practices, corruption, and poor governance. 

Atwoli’s controversies and criticisms

Despite his achievements, Francis Atwoli is no stranger to controversy. His outspoken nature and luxurious lifestyle have occasionally drawn criticism from both political figures and the public. 

Critics have accused him of being too cosy with the political elite, while others question the longevity of his leadership within COTU.

Atwoli’s lavish tastes, from his designer suits, gold rings, and luxury cars to his famous Kajiado mansion, have often sparked debate, especially in contrast to the plight of ordinary workers. 

However, Atwoli insists that his success is a result of hard work and legitimate earnings, arguing that labour leaders deserve to live well if they represent their people effectively.

His bold statements, often laced with humour and proverbs, have also made him a viral figure on social media. Phrases like “Alaa!”, “Nothing will change!”, and “Lazima tuseme ukweli!” have become part of Kenya’s pop culture, showcasing his unique ability to blend seriousness with charisma.

Personal life

Francis Atwoli is married and has several children. He is known to be a family man who values tradition and culture. He has often spoken about his deep connection to his Luhya heritage and is a staunch advocate for African identity and unity.

Away from union work, Atwoli enjoys attending cultural events, travelling, and mentoring young leaders and activists.

Political influence

Although he is not an elected politician, Atwoli wields significant political influence. Over the years, he has supported various political leaders and has played an instrumental role in shaping alliances within Kenya’s political scene.

He was a vocal supporter of the Azimio la Umoja coalition led by Raila Odinga and has never shied away from criticising policies he deems anti-worker, regardless of the administration in power.

Atwoli’s political involvement stems from his belief that labour issues and politics are inseparable, a view rooted in his decades of labour activism.