Francis Atwoli Hints at Retirement After Ruto’s Reign, Says Time to Go Home Is Near
Speaking on Saturday, April 12, in Siaya County, the outspoken unionist revealed that his leadership days at the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) might end with Ruto’s final presidential term.
“I have had the honour to serve in three regimes; I served during Mzee Jomo Kenyatta’s tenure, Daniel Moi’s, Mwai Kibaki’s, Uhuru Kenyatta’s, and now William Ruto’s. I might serve for the last time in Ruto’s government and return to Khwisero,” he declared.
A Legacy Spanning Decades
Atwoli, now 75, has led COTU since 2001. He succeeded the late Joseph Mugalla and has served through five presidencies. With over two decades at the helm, he has shaped Kenya’s labour movement like no other.
Previously, he worked as the General Secretary of the Kenya Plantation and Agricultural Workers Union. He also held positions in international labour organisations. His fierce advocacy for workers’ rights earned him both admiration and criticism.
Still, many workers feel he drifted from their real issues. They accuse him of engaging more in politics than union struggles.
Uncertainty Over Exit Date
Despite hinting at retirement, Atwoli left Kenyans guessing about the exact timeline. He did not confirm whether he’d exit in the 2026 or 2031 COTU elections.
President Ruto’s second term, if re-elected in 2027, will end in 2032. Atwoli suggested his term would end alongside Ruto’s, which clouds clarity over his true retirement date.
COTU will hold its next elections in 2026 and again in 2031. Will Atwoli run again or step down? That remains to be seen.
From Fierce Critic to Ruto Ally
In the run-up to the 2022 presidential election, Atwoli firmly opposed Ruto. He branded him unfit and rallied behind Raila Odinga. He made bold predictions that Ruto wouldn’t win. Their public exchanges grew fiery.
But after Ruto’s victory, everything changed. On December 1, 2022, Atwoli visited State House. The bitter critic had softened.
He accepted the election outcome. He aligned with the administration. Many saw this as political survival; others called it maturity.
The Final Lap?
While he hasn’t officially declared his exit, Atwoli’s message felt emotional and final. After decades of power, he now talks about Khwisero—his home.
Whether 2026 or 2031, his era seems to be nearing its end.
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Francis Atwoli Hints at Retirement After Ruto’s Reign, Says Time to Go Home Is Near
