Tag: Atwoli News

COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli has fired a warning shot at employers nationwide, accusing them of a “deliberate” refusal to adjust workers’ wages despite the crushing cost of living. Speaking on Saturday, April 18, 2026, during a shop stewards’ meeting in Nairobi, the veteran unionist slammed the Federation of Kenyan Employers (FKE) for failing to honor signed agreements.

Atwoli’s frustrations center on the stalling of Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), which he claims are being ignored by private-sector players even after being mutually negotiated.

Blacklisted from Labour Day

In a move to exert pressure, the COTU boss announced that non-compliant employers would be “locked out” of this year’s Labour Day celebrations. The national event, scheduled for May 1 in Vihiga County, is expected to be presided over by President William Ruto.

“We do not want employers to attend our meetings or Labour Day celebrations without invitation because they do not care about our interests and often delay implementing agreements,” Atwoli declared. He argued that it is hypocritical for employers to share a platform with workers while actively sabotaging their financial welfare.

The Tactics of Delay

Atwoli outlined several grievances regarding the current state of labor relations in Kenya:

• Protracted Negotiations: He accused companies of dragging out salary talks for years, only paying increments and arrears when compelled by the threat of industrial action.

• Sidelining Unions: The Secretary General noted a trend where employers avoid key decision-making forums with unions while expecting to be included in union-led initiatives.

• Economic Pressure: He emphasized that with inflation and fuel prices at record highs, the delay in implementing agreed-upon pay rises is putting an “unbearable burden” on Kenyan workers.

Serious Allegations: Tax Evasion and Shell Companies

Beyond wage disputes, Atwoli leveled serious accusations of financial misconduct against certain firms. He claimed that some companies are utilizing shell entities to under-declare their income. By doing so, he argued, these employers avoid both their fair share of taxes and their obligations to provide competitive compensation packages to their staff.

A Platform for Change

With Labour Day less than two weeks away, COTU plans to use the Vihiga celebrations as a high-stakes arena to lobby the President for better pay and improved working conditions. Atwoli’s latest ultimatum signals a period of heightened tension between labor and capital, as the union seeks to turn the tide on wage stagnation in a volatile economy.

COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli stirred controversy on Saturday after declaring that police officers must maintain strict discipline and firm boundaries with civilians — not friendship.

Speaking in Tana River County during a thanksgiving ceremony for Dr. Amani Yuda Komora, the newly sworn-in Chairperson of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC), Atwoli dismissed the idea of “friendly policing,” saying it would weaken law enforcement and encourage crime.

“Polisi lazima awe polisi. Polisi akiwa rafiki ya mwananchi, mambo mabaya haitakomeshwa,” he warned, urging officers to remain tough and uphold authority.

The veteran trade unionist’s remarks came shortly after Narok Senator Ledama Olekina had called for better terms of service for police officers. While agreeing with the senator on welfare improvements, Atwoli insisted that discipline and control must remain central to policing.

He even urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to ease up on punishing officers for actions taken while on duty, saying, “Hata mimi huwa naomba IPOA, ni lazima ipoe kwa polisi.”

Atwoli further provoked reactions with a controversial remark about the need to discipline “the African man,” warning that failure to do so could lead to chaos:

“Mwafrika mtu wa ngozi nyeusi, usipomnyorosha, utampata kwa bedroom yako.”

Backing the New NPSC Boss

Atwoli congratulated Dr. Komora, describing him as a man of integrity and respect, and pledged his full support for his leadership. He urged the new NPSC Chair to prioritise improving police housing and working conditions, noting that many officers serve under harsh circumstances.

The COTU boss added a personal touch, recalling his father’s military background: “Mtoto wa askari, baba yangu alikuwa mtu wa army.”

Decades of Political Influence

To underline his authority, Atwoli recounted his long-standing relationship with Kenya’s political leadership, noting he has worked with every president since independence — from Jomo Kenyatta to William Ruto.

“A workers’ leader must work with any government in power because that’s where decisions on salaries and welfare are made,” he said, adding that he remains the longest-serving elder in KANU.

Kenyan trade union leader Francis Atwoli revealed his sartorial secrets in a recent interview with Jeff Koinange on Citizen TV. Atwoli, known for his sharp style, gets custom-made clothing from both Nigeria and Switzerland.

During the interview, Atwoli sported a black and white striped suit, prompting a fan to inquire about his shopping habits.

“The fabric usually comes from Nigeria,” Atwoli explained. “This specific design was created by my grandson in the US. He actually brought me a few of these.”

For tailoring his Nigerian fabrics, Atwoli relies on a skilled craftsman named Mr. Okoli.

Atwoli also spoke about his signature oversized linen shirts. “These are tailored in a factory in Geneva,” he said, pointing out his initials embroidered on the garment.

Atwoli addressed speculation about his frequent trips to Geneva, emphasizing it’s for business related to his wardrobe. “It’s not just because I can afford it,” he clarified. “I have work there. I spend three months a year in Geneva, and people keep asking where I am or if I’m sick.”

“It’s well-known that I’m in Geneva during March, June, and November,” he concluded, revealing his travel schedule.

Atwoli is among the best dressed politicians in the country. And his deluxe jewellery collection also match his style.

In a move navigating the ongoing tension between the Kenyan executive and judiciary, trade union leader Francis Atwoli has extended conditional support to the courts. While recognizing the crucial role of the Judiciary in protecting the vulnerable, he also emphasized a zero-tolerance stance against corruption within its ranks.

“We will be at the forefront of protecting the court,” Atwoli declared. “However, protecting the court does not mean we support corruption. We support the president 100% on weeding out corruption in the Judiciary and other public departments.”

This statement arrives amidst an escalating standoff between President William Ruto and Chief Justice Martha Koome. Ruto has publicly condemned alleged corruption within the Judiciary and accused unnamed judges of hindering government projects through stay orders. Meanwhile, Chief Justice Koome has invited the President for dialogue to address his concerns directly.

Atwoli’s position seeks a middle ground, acknowledging the need for a healthy and independent judiciary while calling for action against any wrongdoing within its system. This conditional support adds another layer to the complex debate, highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency without undermining the essential functions of the courts.

COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli has refused to apologize to the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) for his support of Brian Mwenda Ngagi, who faces allegations of practicing law without the necessary qualifications and accreditation.

Atwoli’s stance comes in response to a demand by LSK President Eric Theuri for an immediate apology and the withdrawal of his endorsement of Mwenda.

In a statement on his social media account, Atwoli conveyed his position with no room for compromise.

“I am not prepared, willing and available to issue any apology or withdraw my support for Brian Mwenda and calls for Recognition of Prior Learning in the field of Law,” he affirmed.

However, Atwoli has shifted the focus onto the LSK itself, asking them to convene an emergency meeting of the LSK Council and make a public account of the actions taken to address unethical conduct within the legal community.

“Considering many lawyers have made this an issue of ethical values and virtues of the profession, I would like to call upon the LSK President to equally convene an emergency meeting of the LSK Council and report to the general public what they have done or they are doing to handle some rogue members of the LSK who continue to swindle Kenyans millions upon millions,” he asserted.

Atwoli’s statement has sparked a debate on the issue of recognition of prior learning (RPL) in the legal profession. RPL is a process that allows individuals to have their skills and knowledge gained outside of formal education recognized and accredited.

Atwoli argues that RPL is a necessary tool to address the shortage of lawyers in Kenya and to give talented individuals who may not have had the opportunity to attend law school a chance to contribute to the legal profession.

However, the LSK has opposed RPL, arguing that it would undermine the quality of legal services and lead to the admission of unqualified individuals into the profession.

The debate over RPL in the legal profession is likely to continue, with Atwoli’s statement reigniting the discussion. It remains to be seen whether the LSK will convene an emergency meeting to address the issue.

Journalist Mary Kilobi has celebrated her husband, Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) boss Francis Atwoli’s 74th birthday in style.

The two are currently in Geneva, Switzerland, where Atwoli was unanimously elected as the Vice Chairperson of the Workers’ Group of the International Labour Conference (ILC).

Mary made sure to remind everyone that it was a remarkable day for her beloved husband.

Through a social media post, she showered Atwoli with praise and affection, expressing her wishes for his lifelong happiness and success.

“Today is my Prince Charming’s birthday. May you grow younger, yes younger and more younger everyday Franco. I wish you happiness and an extremely long life of good health and pure bliss,” she wrote.

Mary also shared a photo of the couple together, with Atwoli looking dapper in a suit and tie.

Atwoli is a well-known figure in Kenya, and he has been a vocal critic of the government on a number of issues. He is also a strong advocate for workers’ rights.

His election as Vice Chairperson of the Workers’ Group of the ILC is a significant achievement, and it is a testament to his work on behalf of workers in Kenya and around the world.

Mary’s heartfelt message is a reminder of the love and support that Atwoli has from his family and friends. He is a lucky man to have such a loving wife.