Kenya Insights

Tag: Central Organisation of Trade Union (COTU)

  • Power Struggle in Kenya’s Labor Movement: Atwoli Accused of Plotting to ‘Eliminate’ Six Union Bosses

    Power Struggle in Kenya’s Labor Movement: Atwoli Accused of Plotting to ‘Eliminate’ Six Union Bosses

    The halls of Kenya’s labor movement are echoing with disturbing allegations against one of its most powerful figures.

    Francis Atwoli, the 76-year-old Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), finds himself at the center of explosive accusations that paint a picture of systematic intimidation and manipulation within the country’s union landscape.

    The allegations, brought forward by human rights activist Hanifa Adan, claim that Atwoli, who has served as COTU’s Secretary General since August 2001 , is orchestrating a calculated campaign to eliminate six union leaders who pose potential challenges to his continued dominance.

    The targeted unions reportedly include Water and Sanitation, Commercial, Journalism, Security, PUTON, and the Transport and Allied Workers Union (TAWU).

    The most detailed allegations center on TAWU, where Dan Mihadi serves as the general secretary.

    According to the claims, on May 26th, Atwoli allegedly dispatched enforcers to physically confront Mihadi at his office, forcing him to flee for his safety.

    In the aftermath, Nicholas Ogola was purportedly installed as Secretary General, bypassing the union’s constitutional procedures entirely.

    What followed reads like a script from a political thriller.

    Mihadi initially secured a favorable court ruling, only to watch it mysteriously overturned by the same judicial panel.

    The accusations suggest that Ogola’s supporters brazenly boasted of Atwoli’s influence over the judges, claiming the veteran labor leader had “sorted out” the courts to ensure Mihadi’s downfall.

    The web of alleged manipulation extends beyond the courtroom.

    A forgery complaint was filed against Mihadi at Central Police Station, leading to his arrest.

    However, in a bizarre twist, the individual whose name appeared on the complaint later denied ever stepping foot in the police station or having any involvement in the charges.

    Despite this contradiction, law enforcement allegedly showed no interest in investigating the discrepancy.

    The timing of these allegations is particularly significant given the broader context of Atwoli’s political positioning.

    The COTU board has walked back on Atwoli’s declaration that he would exit the leadership, and board members have unanimously endorsed Francis Atwoli to continue as Secretary General in the upcoming union elections.

    This reversal came after Atwoli hinted at his exit from the union during Labour Day celebrations , suggesting internal pressures may be influencing his decision to remain in power.

    The allegations paint a troubling picture of institutional capture, where police officers allegedly warned Mihadi that substantial resources had been deployed to keep him entangled in legal proceedings indefinitely.

    If true, these claims suggest a coordinated effort involving multiple state institutions, from the judiciary to law enforcement agencies.

    These accusations come at a time when Atwoli faces pressure to retire after 24 years as COTU boss, yet the COTU Executive Board has reaffirmed its support for Atwoli and plans to back him for re-election in 2026.

    The allegations suggest this support may not extend throughout the broader labor movement, particularly among independent union leaders who might challenge the established order.

    The Transport and Allied Workers Union has been particularly active in recent years, with Mihadi leading advocacy efforts for aviation workers’ rights and opposing various transportation policies.

    TAWU Secretary General Dan Mihadi has been vocal about aviation workers being overlooked and has called for government intervention on minimum wages  .

    If substantiated, these allegations would represent a serious breach of democratic principles within Kenya’s labor movement.

    They suggest a pattern of using state institutions and extra-legal pressure to suppress internal dissent and maintain power structures that may no longer serve the interests of ordinary workers.

    The accusations also raise questions about the integrity of Kenya’s judicial and law enforcement systems, particularly their susceptibility to external influence in labor disputes.

    The alleged ease with which court decisions can be overturned and false charges fabricated points to systemic vulnerabilities that extend far beyond the labor movement.

    As Kenya’s labor movement grapples with these serious allegations, the broader implications for workers’ rights and democratic governance within trade unions remain to be seen.

    The coming months will likely determine whether these accusations lead to meaningful reforms or whether they become another chapter in the complex power dynamics that have long characterized Kenya’s institutional landscape.

    The allegations against Atwoli, if proven true, would represent not just a personal failing but a systemic breakdown in the checks and balances that should govern democratic institutions.

    For a movement built on principles of worker solidarity and collective action, such accusations strike at the very heart of organized labor’s credibility and moral authority.

    As investigations into these claims potentially unfold, the Kenyan labor movement faces a critical juncture that will test its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the democratic principles upon which effective trade unionism depends.

  • NEWSPAPER ATTACKS COTU’S COMPROMISED LEGACY AS RUMORS TELL OF ATWOLI’S IMMINENT OUSTER

    NEWSPAPER ATTACKS COTU’S COMPROMISED LEGACY AS RUMORS TELL OF ATWOLI’S IMMINENT OUSTER

    Fresh Plot to Remove Long-serving Union Boss Emerges as COTU Marks 60 Years

    As the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) marks its 60th anniversary this week, a scathing newspaper analysis has branded the umbrella labor body as a “compromised” institution that has strayed far from its mandate of defending workers’ rights.

    Meanwhile, rumors are intensifying about an elaborate plot to remove Secretary-General Francis Atwoli from his position in the upcoming 2026 elections.

    According to a report published in the Daily Nation titled “Solidarity sold? 60 years of COTU’s compromised legacy,” the labor organization was deliberately established in 1965 as a political tool to “contain the rise of an independent and militant workers’ front.”

    The lengthy analysis argues that founding President Jomo Kenyatta engineered COTU’s formation to ensure “industrial peace” – effectively neutralizing radical unionism that might threaten the state’s power.

    “What has followed in the last six decades has been a delicate dance between the COTU leadership and the Executive where workers’ rights have often been sacrificed at the altar of supposed national stability and economic growth,” the newspaper states.

    This criticism comes as an image circulating in media circles suggests Atwoli, who has led COTU since 2001, faces a serious challenge to his leadership.

    The report claims that “plans to unseat him in the upcoming 2026 elections are said to be in high gear,” with his potential successor allegedly working with members of Atwoli’s inner circle to orchestrate his removal.

    The plot reportedly has backing from “powerful State mandarins and disgruntled union members who are eager for new leadership.”

    Sources indicate a strategy meeting took place in Naivasha last week where several union leaders met to “finalize plans to push him out.”

    Atwoli’s Rebuttal

    In a swift response posted on social media, Atwoli dismissed the historical analysis, describing journalist John Kamau as “an exceptional writer and a repository of historical literature” whose “great understanding of history has made him blind to progress.”

    “I remain available to appraise John on the developments in the labour movement in Kenya, post 2001,” Atwoli stated, suggesting that the writer’s “perspective remains trapped in the bygone era” and fails to acknowledge COTU’s evolution during his two-decade tenure.

    The 74-year-old labor leader recently hinted at his eventual departure while suggesting that “only then will people know his importance in the position” – perhaps acknowledging awareness of the unfolding scheme.

    This comes despite COTU’s executive committee previously endorsing him for a sixth term.

    The Daily Nation article traces COTU’s history of political entanglement through successive regimes, noting how previous Secretary-Generals like Denis Akumu, Juma Boy, Justus Mulei, and Joseph Mugalla navigated complex relationships with state power.

    “Today, at Solidarity House, the echoes of a once-radical workers’ movement have all but faded. Labour Day rallies, once brimming with defiance and purpose, now suffer from poor turnout and lack the revolutionary spirit of the past,” the newspaper concludes.

    Atwoli’s tenure has been marked by his ability to maintain relationships across political divides. Most recently, after initially opposing President William Ruto during campaigns, he expressed willingness to work with the administration “to create an enabling environment for Kenyan workers.”

    Critics argue this pattern reflects COTU’s historical compromise – prioritizing institutional survival and leadership entrenchment over militant advocacy for workers’ rights.

    As the organization celebrates its diamond jubilee, questions about its independence and effectiveness continue to grow louder.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • ‘You Will Wish I Stayed Longer,’ Atwoli Hints at COTU Departure, Warns of Leadership Void

    ‘You Will Wish I Stayed Longer,’ Atwoli Hints at COTU Departure, Warns of Leadership Void

    NAIROBI — Long-serving Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has signaled his imminent departure from leadership, issuing a stark warning that Kenyans will soon “realise there is something amiss” in the country’s labor movement after he steps down.

    Speaking at a pre-Labor Day meeting on Saturday, Atwoli emphasized COTU’s significance on the continental stage, describing it as “one of the most powerful trade union organisations” in Africa.

    “Soon, I will exit with all this group, that is when you will start realising there is something amiss in Kenya’s labour movement. You will see,” Atwoli told attendees, suggesting that his departure may create a leadership vacuum in Kenya’s trade union scene.

    Francis Atwoli.
    Francis Atwoli.

    The veteran labor leader, who has held his position since 2001, earlier hinted at retirement during an address on May 14, noting that President William Ruto would likely be the last Head of State he serves under before returning to his home in Khwisero.

    “I have had the opportunity to serve all the Presidents of Kenya since independence,” Atwoli reflected.

    “I have seen the government of Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, the founding father of this nation, I have seen Mzee Daniel Moi’s government, which we were with for 24 years, I have seen the government of Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta and yours (William Ruto).”

    His remarks come as COTU prepares for Labor Day celebrations in 2025, a traditional platform for the union to address workers’ concerns nationwide.

    Atwoli defended his legacy, highlighting achievements including his fight to secure paternity leave for Kenyan workers and his role in establishing five sets of labor laws.

    He also pointed to COTU’s international influence, referencing the organization’s role in securing key positions for African representatives in global labor bodies.

    The COTU Secretary General’s tenure has been a subject of public debate throughout his nearly quarter-century at the helm, with many questioning the duration of his leadership.

    Despite these criticisms, Atwoli maintains that his contributions to Kenya’s labor movement will only be fully appreciated after his departure.

    “Kenyans are keen on remembering their leaders after they have left office and not when serving them,” he observed, suggesting that his legacy will be better recognized in retrospect.

    While Atwoli did not specify an exact retirement date, his statements mark the clearest indication yet that one of Kenya’s most recognizable and enduring labor leaders may soon step aside, potentially reshaping the landscape of workers’ representation in the country.

  • Whistleblower Accounts Catch Atwoli Off Guard in COTU Sexual Harassment Allegations

    Whistleblower Accounts Catch Atwoli Off Guard in COTU Sexual Harassment Allegations

    The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), Kenya’s premier labor union tasked with championing workers’ rights, is under fire following explosive whistleblower allegations of systemic mismanagement, sexual harassment, and employee mistreatment.

    The accusations, first brought to light by blogger Cyprian Nyakundi via an anonymous employee’s detailed exposé, have thrust COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli into an uncomfortable spotlight, prompting a swift rebuttal from the union boss.

    A Damning Exposé

    The whistleblower’s account, shared with Nyakundi and posted on X on March 22, 2025, paints a grim picture of life inside COTU.

    The anonymous employee alleges that staff endure months-long salary delays with no explanation, while management continues to jet-set on business trips.

    “The bosses are busy travelling as normal staff struggle with late salary payments, low payments, and biased promotions and salary increments,” the employee wrote.

    More disturbingly, the whistleblower claims that dissent is met with ruthless reprisals. “Anyone who tries to speak out against these ills is fired without due procedure,” they stated, citing the recent dismissals of employees identified only as Irine, Selina, Jackline, Nnamdi, and Mike.

    The employee also highlighted a mysterious SACCO (Savings and Credit Cooperative) scheme, alleging that staff are coerced into deductions for an entity with no known officials, location, or accountability. “We are over-deducted on issues we don’t even understand. We go home with nothing,” they lamented.

    Perhaps the most shocking accusation is the pervasive sexual harassment targeting young female interns. According to the whistleblower, interns are either preyed upon by senior officials or have their attachments terminated if they resist.

    “Young girls coming in for internship are being sexually harassed or have their attachments discontinued. The naive ones are being carried by the bosses everywhere they go for meetings — for their sexual pleasure,” the account reads. One specific case alleges that a friend was sacked after refusing advances from “a very old administrative secretary” who allegedly leverages stolen funds to coerce staff into sexual favors.

    The whistleblower also recounted the fate of a new accountant, Mike, who was reportedly fired after uncovering payroll irregularities.

    “When he started highlighting irregularities in the payroll and how funds were not being well accounted for, he was forced to go on compulsory leave and fired a few days later,” they claimed.

    Adding to the intrigue, the employee referenced an unnamed boss with an active sexual harassment case in Brussels, hastily repatriated to Nairobi to avoid scrutiny.

    Atwoli’s Defense

    In a detailed response issued shortly after the allegations surfaced, Francis Atwoli dismissed the claims as “defamatory remarks aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the union.”

    The outspoken COTU leader branded the whistleblower’s account as baseless and driven by personal vendetta, asserting that the organization remains committed to its employees’ welfare.

    On the issue of salary delays, Atwoli insisted that payments are always made on time, with the exception of one incident involving an employee he accused of tampering with the payroll. He identified this individual as a probationary staff member dismissed after four months for attempting “to change COTU’s payroll for personal financial gain and even alter[ing] the organization’s logo.”

    Atwoli emphasized that the termination followed due process and that COTU refrained from pursuing legal action despite the alleged misconduct.

    Addressing the unlawful dismissal claims, Atwoli argued that no employee has been unfairly sacked.

    “All those mentioned who have since left COTU (K) have since paid their service payments and dues and none has since complained,” he said, adding that many former staff have secured senior roles in the private and public sectors.

    On the explosive sexual harassment allegations, Atwoli was unequivocal: “COTU (K) has a zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment.” He pointed to the union’s “well-defined Sexual Harassment Policy and a safeguarding policy,” which he claimed ensures swift and decisive action on complaints.

    “As of today, no serving officer and or official of COTU (K) is facing any allegations or investigations related to sexual harassment,” he added, encouraging staff to report incidents internally or to authorities.

    Atwoli reaffirmed COTU’s dedication to transparency, fairness, and workers’ rights, urging the public to dismiss the whistleblower’s claims and contact the union for clarification.

    A Clash of Narratives

    The stark contrast between the whistleblower’s account and Atwoli’s rebuttal raises troubling questions about the inner workings of COTU, an organization meant to be a beacon for Kenyan workers.

    While Atwoli’s response seeks to restore confidence, the specificity of the allegations — including named employees and references to a Brussels incident — suggests a deeper story that may not be easily dismissed.

    Posts on X (formerly Twitter) reflect growing public skepticism. One user remarked, “Hapo kwa sexual harassment i heard kitambo and things are bad there for young ladies. COTU is a sick rotten place. Atwoli being the sickest of all,” echoing sentiments that the allegations may have roots in longstanding rumors.

    Another called for COTU and Atwoli to part ways, citing “corruption, sexual harassment, and workers mistreatment” as grievous offenses.

    The whistleblower’s plea for investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) adds urgency to the matter.

    “A lot of us will confide in them if they come on the ground. The staff are demoralized and can’t speak out openly,” they wrote. Yet, without concrete evidence beyond the anonymous account, the claims remain unverified — a challenge compounded by the employee’s request for anonymity, likely出于 fear of retaliation.

    The ambiguity of the allegations is too serious to ignore, particularly given COTU’s mandate to protect workers.

    Atwoli’s dismissal of the claims as a personal vendetta does little to address the detailed nature of the accusations or the whistleblower’s call for independent scrutiny.

    The mention of a Brussels case, if true, could be a critical lead — one that merits further investigation into COTU’s international dealings and the conduct of its officials.

    Meanwhile, it appears that the duel is just starting and a lot more could be uncovered in due time.

    Screenshots by Kenya Insights.

    For now, the ball is in the court of Kenya’s investigative authorities.

    Will the DCI and DPP heed the whistleblower’s appeal and launch a probe? Or will these allegations fade into the noise of unproven rumors? One thing is clear: the voices of COTU’s staff — silenced by fear or amplified by courage — deserve to be heard.

    Until then, Francis Atwoli’s assurances ring hollow against the raw, unfiltered desperation of a whistleblower caught off guard by a system they once trusted.

  • ODM Lawmaker Tables Bill To Oust Atwoli From COTU

    ODM Lawmaker Tables Bill To Oust Atwoli From COTU

    Migori Senator Eddy Oketch has proposed a legislation that could threaten the existence of Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli from the position that he had held for more than two decades.

    The Labour Relations (Amendment) Bill, 2024 seek to set term limits for union officials and to end the current arrangement where officials can hold office for as many terms as possible provided they are duly elected and re-elected.

    “The principal object of the bill is to provide for the term of office of officials of a trade union, employers’ organisation or federation and requirements for registering a trade union,” the bill states.

    “An official of a trade union, employers’ organisation or federation shall hold office for a term beginning on the date on which the official was elected and ending when a person is next elected as an official.”

    Migori Senator Eddy Oketch. Photo/Facebook.
    Migori Senator Eddy Oketch. Photo/Facebook.

    Expectedly, Mr. Atwoli has lashed out at the proposal claiming it goes against the principles of free and independent trade unions as advocated for by the International Labour Organisation.

    Mr Atwoli said trade unions are essential, free and independent organisations representing the interests of workers, with operations guided by their constitutions.

    “It is evident that first-term Senator Eddy Oketch needs to spend more time familiarising himself with the workings of the Senate, particularly with regard to the autonomy and independence of trade unions, rather than talking about issues that are hitherto of no interest to the many Kenyans servicing and sustaining his stay at the Senate.” Atwoli said.

    “Cotu wishes to express strong opposition to the Labour Relations (Amendment) Bill 2024,” Mr Atwoli declined yesterday.

    Atwoli has called on Senator Oketch to unconditionally withdraw the Bill and instead engage the National Labour Board.

    The proposed bill has been published for introduction in the Senate for first reading.

    It is set to undergo public participation where officials will share their views on the proposed law.

    The Bill, that appears to target long-term officials of trade unions and federations, officials of the groups shall hold office for not more than two terms.

    The radical move could see long-serving Cotu SG Atwoli and Federation of Kenya Employers executive director Jacqueline Mugo exit office.

    In a rejoinder, however, Atwoli challenged Senator Oketch to familiarise himself with the workings of the Senate, particularly concerning the autonomy and independence of trade unions rather than talking about issues that are hitherto of no interest to the many Kenyans servicing and sustaining his stay at the Senate.

    Atwoli has served as Cotu secretary general since 2001 when he was first elected.

    His current term ends in April 2026 after he won re-election on April 9, 2021.

    Reactions

    A section of country’s leadership has reacted to Atwoli’s assertions and fight to keep his hold on power mostly terming it selfish.

    “Francis Atwoli has served time and must now leave the Labour Relations arena. Courts are abolishing life sentences for capital offenses, opining that 30 years is more than a life sentence. Why should one individual serve in a public office for more than 30 years.” Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Nelson Havi said.

    Former Kiambu governor William Kabogo alludes that Atwoli is not indispensable and that he should give way for new leadership, “ this should not be in debate, all public servants should have term limits. No one is indisposable. Fresh is always good.” He said.

    “Francis Atwoli has walked on the backs of Kenyan workers for decades for selfish gain. Most of those he represents are underpaid. COTU is as useless as a used tissue paper. Atwoli only negotiates for his stomach. That’s why he survives by kissing every successive regime’s ass.” Musa Salah posted on X.

    However, speaking on Wednesday on Citizen TV, Atwoli said it is not up to him to decide when to retire.

    “Are you serving the people who gave you that mandate? That is the question. It is not me to retire, it is them to say. I wanted to retire in 2011 and they said no, I wanted to retire in 2016 they said no. In 2021 I said now you will decide. I’m still around,” he said.

    By the time of the next election, Atwoli will have served for 25 years.

    Last year, he hinted at leaving Cotu at the end of the current term.

    “Matters Cotu-K leadership are Cotu-K constitutional issue and not an Atwoli issue. As of now, I am in office serving my last term,” Atwoli said.

    The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers secretary general Akello Misori and chairman Omboko Milemba have also served the union for a long time.

    Other long-serving trade union officials are Kenya County Government Workers Union secretary general Roba Duba and Kenya Union of Nurses secretary general Seth Panyako.

    According to the Bill, existing officials of a trade union, employers organisation or federation shall be deemed to be duly elected under the Act for the remainder of their term.