Francis Atwoli Dismisses Claims He's Overstayed In COTU Leadership: "Mzee Wa Kisasa"

• Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Francis Atwoli said his extensive experience has revolutionised the labour movement in Kenya
• Atwoli argued that those calling for his retirement do not understand the vital role he has silently been playing, including the signing of more than 44 CBAs
• He dismissed claims by his critics that he had gone into bed with the Kenya Kwanza Alliance administration

Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings more than three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Nairobi - Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Francis Atwoli has rubbished calls for his retirement from the labour movement leadership.

Francis Atwoli speaks about prolonged COTU leadership

Speaking during Labour Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens on Wednesday, May 1, Atwoli downplayed claims that he was too old to continue leading COTU.

The long-serving trade unionist said his advanced age comes with experience in dealing with issues affecting the welfare of workers across the country.

"Other people are saying I am old and have overstayed my position. But I have experience. I'm a modern old man; that is how we have moved from activism to dialogue," Atwoli said.

Atwoli further dismissed claims by his critics that he had neglected workers' affairs by working closely with the Kenya Kwanza administration.

"Today's trade union movement has changed from agitation to scientific dialogue, so you don't hear us fighting. We're with employers in boardrooms, negotiating good terms and conditions for our members. In my union this year, I signed more than 44 CBAs to cushion workers from the cost of living and some say 'Atwoli amekaa tu pale' 'Hii mzee'. Ni mzee wa kisasa," he added.

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When will Francis Atwoli retire?

In the past, the long-serving COTU boss suggested that the end of his tenure at the labour organisation may not come soon.

The retirement question was posed to Atwoli by Narok senator Ledama Olekina who observed that the trade unionist has been at the helm of COTU during tenures of at least three presidents in Kenya's history.

The lawmaker jested that President William Ruto might finish his probable two ten-year terms and leave Atwoli still at COTU.

Explaining his prolonged stay at the organisation, Atwoli took pride in his 'good service' which he implied has endeared him to workers.

Proofreading by Otukho Jackson, a multimedia journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke