- Lawyer Fatuma Abdulkadir Adan is leading a petition urging Francis Atwoli to step down.
- She says the move is about refreshing leadership at COTU, not targeting Atwoli’s age.
- Fatuma praises Atwoli’s legacy but insists COTU must embrace fresh ideas.
- The petition invites Kenyans to back new leadership and forward-looking reforms.
- She believes COTU needs leaders who understand modern-day labour struggles.
Lawyer and activist Fatuma Abdulkadir Adan has started a public petition asking veteran trade unionist Francis Atwoli to retire. While recognising his long-standing contribution to workers’ rights, she believes the time has come for him to exit the scene and make space for a new crop of leaders.
It’s Not About Age, But the Future of COTU
Fatuma made it clear that the campaign isn’t based on discrimination against older individuals. Instead, she explained that change in leadership is necessary to ensure the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) remains vibrant, efficient, and connected to the changing demands of today’s workforce.
Honouring Atwoli’s Legacy While Ushering in Growth
She acknowledged Atwoli’s strong legacy and years of service to Kenyan workers. However, she noted that every strong institution must undergo change to remain useful. New leadership, she said, could bring in modern strategies that help labour movements grow stronger and more impactful.
Kenyan Workers Deserve Fresh Ideas
Fatuma believes that opening up COTU’s leadership will bring in younger, visionary individuals who are in tune with current realities affecting the Kenyan worker. Issues like youth unemployment, digital labour, and changing employer-employee dynamics need fresh thinking, she argued.
Petition Gains Momentum as Kenyans Are Urged to Act
Calling on citizens to back her initiative, Fatuma urged Kenyans to sign the petition and support a peaceful leadership transition. She said this shift will help the organisation stay responsive to members’ needs while also ensuring labour rights are well protected in the future.
