It has been reported that the Kenya Kwanza leadership is in the process of planning for Mr Francis Atwoli’s succession. Investigations have revealed that President Ruto, who has since decided to cut any links with Mr Atwoli and is currently devising plans that may hinder his chances of being re-elected
By The Weekly Vision Team
Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli finds himself in a precarious situation after word started circulating in the media about his removal from office. If the stories turn out to be correct, then Kenyans are likely to witness a dramatic battle, since Mr. Atwoli is expected to defend his position with all his might.
It has been reported that the Kenya Kwanza leadership is in the process of planning for Mr Atwoli’s succession. Investigations have revealed that President Ruto, who has since decided to cut any links with Mr Atwoli, is currently devising plans that may hinder the COTU boss’s chances of being re-elected. Credible sources have disclosed the existence of a well-designed scheme to ensure Mr Atwoli does not secure re-election in the union’s forthcoming elections in 2026.
Apart from seeking re-elections in 2026, there are efforts by the government to oust Mr Atwoli from his position before his term expires. For two and a half decades, Atwoli has been at the forefront of COTU leadership; he assumed the position in 2001. His current term, which began after winning re-election on April 9, 2021, will end in April 2026, marking a total of five five-year terms served. In total, he will have served for a record 25 years!
Many will recall that Mr. Atwoli supported Azimio’s Raila Odinga in the last general elections; he consistently criticized current president William Ruto. However, after William Ruto was declared the winner in the elections, Mr Atwoli promptly switched sides and aligned himself with the Kenya Kwanza administration. Nevertheless, President Ruto’s close associates have since downplayed his defection, considering it a manoeuvre to safeguard his position and maintain his political relevance in the country.
Sources also say that Mr Atwoli has privately disclosed to his inner circle the likelihood of him not pursuing re-election in 2026. According to some political analysts, President Ruto has since realized that having Mr Atwoli on his side does not bring any substantial benefits. Before the last general elections, Mr Atwoli pledged to flee the country if William Ruto emerged as the victor in the presidential poll. Rev. Joel Kandie, who currently holds the position of COTU national chairman, is widely believed to be the frontrunner to succeed Atwoli.
