Francis Atwoli, the Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions-Kenya (COTU-K), has unveiled significant leadership changes within the organization.
In a statement released on Friday, Atwoli announced the election of Rev. Joel Kandie Chebii as the new Chairman General of the workers’ body.
Rev. Kandie, with a commendable four decades of service to COTU, currently holds the position of General Secretary of the Tiles and Textiles Union.
His election by the COTU Executive Board comes in the aftermath of the unfortunate passing of the long-serving Chairman General, Rajabu Wellington Mwondi, who succumbed to illness at the Aga Khan Hospital in Kisumu in August.
Additionally, Atwoli shared that Wycliffe Nyamwatta, a dedicated member of COTU’s board for the past two decades, has been elected as the 2nd Vice Chairman General of the trade union.
Atwoli emphasized the importance of stability within the organization, stating, “Stability is key to any organization and, as COTU (K), we shall continue ensuring that the Union is united and stable so as to serve Kenyan workers.”
Furthermore, he urged the newly appointed officials to persist in their advocacy for the improvement of workers’ rights and well-being in Kenya.
During the announcement, Atwoli also provided insights into the preparations for the upcoming 5th Congress of the International Confederation of Trade Unions (Africa), ITUC – Africa.
COTU (K), affiliated with ITUC-Africa, is privileged to host this year’s congress, bringing together over 500 delegates from across Africa and beyond.
Participants, including trade unionists and leaders in the labor movement, will engage in discussions focusing on the future of labor in Africa and the pivotal role of trade unions in shaping a better continent.
The 5th Congress of the ITUC is poised to be a significant platform for deliberations on the challenges and opportunities facing African labor, as well as strategies for fostering a more robust and equitable labor landscape on the continent.
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