COTU Responds to Claims of Seven Petitions Challenging Atwoli’s Election and New Officials

The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya), COTU (K), has dismissed reports that seven petitions were filed against its March 14, 2026, elections.

The elections took place at Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu, where Secretary General Francis Atwoli led the newly elected officials.

COTU (K) raised concerns over media reports that misrepresented facts. Some outlets exaggerated the number of petitions, creating unnecessary alarm. The union clarified that only three petitions existed.

It described them as baseless and filed by individuals with questionable motives. The three petitions included:

• A case at the Employment and Labour Relations Court in Nairobi by Mr. Fazul Mahamed, described as “A known hardcore criminal.”
• A case at the High Court in Kerugoya by the Centre for Public Policy and Research, an organization with no history or presence.
• A case filed in Nairobi by Mr. Francis Awino, called “An activist and extortionist,” due to previous attempts to extort COTU leadership.

Courts Reject Petitions Against Officials

Courts have reinforced the legitimacy of the March elections. The Employment and Labour Relations Court denied requests to block the registration of elected officials.

Similarly, the High Court in Kerugoya transferred a petition to Nairobi, noting that it lacked jurisdiction.

Also Read: COTU Addresses Viral Video of Atwoli Being Heckled

“We wish to call upon Kenyan workers who are members of COTU (K) not to be disturbed by the propaganda being spread through the influence of these known hardcore criminals.” The Union reassured members.

Media should avoid sensationalism

COTU (K) criticized headlines that claimed the court rulings were “a reprieve to COTU.”

The union urged journalists to maintain professional standards. It warned against being used by individuals who aim to advance personal interests.

Also Read: Francis Atwoli: Early Life, Family, Education, Career and Politics

Meanwhile, Secretary General Atwoli travelled to Geneva to attend the ILO Governing Body Meeting as the union continues its operations smoothly across Kenya.

The union emphasized that the petitions will not affect its mandate. COTU (K) reaffirmed its commitment to protect workers’ interests and serve Kenyan members effectively.

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Dr. Francis Atwoli has been re-elected as the Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya), COTU (K). PHOTO/ COTU (K) X.