Francis Atwoli declares Kenya does not need young leaders

By Newsflash Repoter

NAIROBI, Kenya – Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli has sparked debate with his declaration that Kenya does not require young leaders, advocating instead for the maintenance of experienced leadership to ensure steady national growth. The controversial remarks came during the opening ceremony of the Third Edition of the Employment and Labour Relations Court Annual Symposium (ELRASE III) in Nairobi.

Atwoli, who has led COTU for 24 years, defended his position by citing international examples of older leadership while connecting his lengthy tenure to worker satisfaction. His comments arrive amid growing calls for generational change in Kenyan politics and leadership positions across various sectors.

Defense of Experienced Leadership

The veteran trade unionist directly challenged the narrative favoring younger leaders, pointing to global examples to support his argument. “Let no one tell you that this country needs young leaders…nowhere in the world, how old is Donald Trump? Even the Italian president is 93, he has to be assisted to the podium,” Atwoli stated during his address.

He connected this philosophy to his own extended leadership, suggesting that workers’ continued support validated his approach. “Even me, why do you think workers in Kenya have stuck with me all these years? They don’t want to let me go,” Atwoli remarked, framing his lengthy tenure as evidence of effective leadership rather than stagnation.

Judiciary Focuses on Child Protection

The symposium, held at Strathmore University and presided over by Chief Justice Martha Koome, primarily focused on eliminating child labour and enhancing access to justice. While Atwoli’s comments captured attention, the event’s official theme centered on protecting children’s rights and development.

Chief Justice Koome delivered a powerful address emphasizing the constitutional imperative to combat child labour. “If we are to take seriously the promises of our constitution, we must take seriously the fight against child labor,” Koome stated. “Child labour is an evil in our society. It robs children of their dignity and their future.”

Atwoli aligned with this focus, noting that “the best way to protect a child is to ensure that the parents have dignified livelihoods,” connecting workers’ rights to broader family welfare.

Collaborative Approach to Child Protection

High Court Judge Justice Antony Mrima emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach to eliminating child labour, noting that judicial efforts alone would prove insufficient. “The elimination of child labour cannot be done by the judiciary alone. May our conversations in this symposium inspire bold and practical steps to protect children and secure their full potential,” he stated.

The symposium brought together legal experts, labour representatives, and child rights advocates to develop comprehensive strategies against child exploitation. This focus on practical solutions contrasted with the political implications of Atwoli’s comments about leadership demographics.

Context and Implications

Atwoli’s remarks come at a time when Kenya is experiencing significant political debate about generational transition and leadership renewal. His position directly challenges growing calls for younger leadership across Kenyan institutions, setting the stage for continued discussion about the balance between experience and fresh perspectives in governance.

The COU leader’s comments are likely to reignite debates about term limits, leadership renewal, and the qualities Kenyans should prioritize in their leaders across both political and labor sectors.