COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli. File image | Courtesy
In Summary:
- Francis Atwoli, Secretary-General of Kenya’s Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), has been re-elected for a record fifth term as a member of the governing body of the International Labour Organization (ILO).
- Atwoli received overwhelming support, garnering 97 out of 130 votes during the 112th International Labour Conference (ILC).
In a remarkable achievement, Francis Atwoli, the long-serving Secretary-General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) in Kenya, has secured a record fifth term as a member of the governing body of the International Labour Organization (ILO), a prestigious global organization for labor rights.
The re-election, announced in a statement by COTU on Monday, confirms Atwoli’s standing as a leading figure in the international labor movement.
The election took place during the ongoing 112th International Labour Conference (ILC), where Atwoli received strong backing from delegates, winning an impressive 97 out of the 130 votes cast.
This resounding victory highlights his dedicated commitment to the global labor cause and makes him the longest-serving member of the ILO Governing Body, an achievement he acknowledged with humility.
Reacting to his historic re-election, Dr. Atwoli expressed gratitude, stating, “This re-election not only shows my continued commitment to the international labor movement but also makes me the longest-serving member of the ILO Governing Body, which I do not take for granted.”
Beyond the ILO, Atwoli holds influential roles in other major international labour groups.
He continues to serve as a Vice President of the Global International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) in Brussels and as a Council Member of the ITUC African Regional Organization.
Previously, he was also the President of the Organization of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU).
The COTU statement emphasized Atwoli’s broad expertise and years of experience serving workers globally, saying, “These appointments show the trust workers in Kenya and beyond have in me to contribute to leading key institutions in Kenya and internationally.”
In addition to his union leadership, Atwoli has served on various national boards like the Social Health Authority, National Social Security Fund, Kenya Anti-Corruption Commission, National Industrial Training Authority, and National Bank of Kenya, amplifying his impact nationally and globally.
Despite his many international roles and national board positions, Atwoli remains dedicated to COTU, where he has tirelessly advocated for Kenyan workers’ rights and well-being for the past two decades, solidifying his reputation as a champion of labor rights.