Kenyan unionist Francis Atwoli re-elected as member of ILO

By Samuel Ouma

Kenyan unionist Dr. Francis Atwoli has been elected for a fourth time in a row as a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) governing body in Geneva, Switzerland.

Kenya’s Central Organization of Trade Unions (Cotu) Secretary General’s re-election was confirmed during the ongoing 109th Virtual Session of the International Labour Conference, ILC.

Firebrand Atwoli was among the candidates who garnered several votes worldwide. He will now be tasked with the responsibility of representing the interests of working men and women on the African Continent for the four years of 2021-2024.

"On behalf of COTU (K)'s Executive Board, and on my own behalf, I would like to congratulate the COTU(K) Secretary General, Dr. Francis Atwoli, for his re-election to this important decision making body. We wish him Godspeed in his role," said Deputy Secretary-General, Cotu, Benson Okwaro.

“As COTU (K) we take great pride in associating with Atwoli and for his leadership, mentorship and guidance. Indeed, the person of Atwoli commands a lot of reverence and admiration internationally considering his firm leadership and commitment to the plight of the workers globally,” he added.

The ILO is a United Nations agency mandated to promote social justice and internationally recognized human and labour rights, pursuing its founding mission that labour peace is essential to prosperity.

It was formed in 1919 as part of the Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I to reflect the belief that universal and lasting peace can be accomplished only if it's based on social justice.

Members of the organization meet three times a year in March, June, and November to take decisions on ILO policy, decide the Agenda of the International Labour Conference, adopt the draft programme and budget of the Organisation for submission to the Conference and elect the Director-General of the ILO.