Atwoli Seeks Another 5-Year Term as COTU Boss, Says 42 Union Leaders Back Him

42 Union Leaders Endorse Atwoli for August COTU Elections

Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU-K) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has received strong backing ahead of the August 2026 COTU elections, with 42 trade union leaders endorsing his bid to continue leading the workers’ body.

Atwoli, who has been at the helm of COTU since 2001, said the endorsement came after a consultative lunch meeting held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, bringing together General Secretaries from COTU-affiliated unions.

Speaking through a statement shared on his official X account, Atwoli said the leaders unanimously agreed to support his candidature as a show of unity and solidarity within the labour movement.

“Today, I hosted 42 General Secretaries from affiliated trade unions, who unanimously endorsed me to lead them into the upcoming COTU elections scheduled for August this year,” Atwoli said.

Unity Among Trade Unions

The veteran trade unionist said the support reflects growing unity among workers’ representatives as the country heads into the next trade union election cycle.

He added that together with the union leaders, they remain committed to protecting workers’ rights, promoting fair labour practices and strengthening COTU for future generations.

“Together, in unity and solidarity, we shall continue defending workers’ rights and strengthening COTU for the future,” he stated.

Trade Union Election date

The endorsement comes as preparations intensify for the 2026 trade union elections, which are being supervised by the Office of the Registrar of Trade Unions under the Labour Relations Act of 2007.

Atwoli Seeks Another 5-Year Term as COTU Boss, Says 42 Union Leaders Back Him

According to a circular issued on September 25, 2025, branch-level elections are set to take place between January 5 and March 31, 2026, while national elections will be held from April 1 to June 30, 2026.

Elections for umbrella bodies such as COTU and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) must be completed by August 30, 2026.

The Registrar has urged all unions to strictly follow their constitutions and ensure proper notice is given to members to guarantee smooth and transparent elections.

Successful candidates will serve a five-year term, in line with the law.