Atwoli Turns Labour Day Celebrations Into Political Rally for Ruto - May 2026

COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli used the 2026 Labour Day celebrations at Friends School Chavakali to lead 'tutam' chants, asserting Kenya's strength and progress. The 61st Labour Day celebrations in Vihiga County were dominated by political endorsements for President William Ruto's re-election bid, shifting focus from workers' rights to early succession politics. Meanwhile, COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli is urging the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to stop premature political rallies, warning that ongoing political escalations could lead to unrest that disproportionately harms workers. Separately, President William Ruto has conducted 38 trips to Nyanza region since July 2024, significantly altering the political landscape and fostering cooperation with ODM leaders, particularly in Homa Bay.