A lively argument took place online this week between journalist and activist Hanifa Adan and Francis Atwoli, the Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU). The clash began after Adan wrote a column in the Daily Nation criticizing Kenya’s leadership.
This dispute has sparked strong reactions from Kenyans and highlights the differences between generations in the country’s political discussions.
In her article titled “The lie we grew up with: You are tomorrow’s leaders,” published on May 6, 2025, Adan criticized COTU for supporting Atwoli, who is 76 years old, in running for another term as Secretary General. He has held this position since 2001.
Adan argued that Atwoli’s long time in power shows a failure to include young people in important leadership roles, especially as more youths face unemployment and workers’ rights are not being respected.
“For 23 years, one man has been leading the most powerful workers’ union in the country,” Adan wrote, suggesting that it’s time for new ideas and perspectives.
Atwoli responded on May 7 with a harsh statement, calling Adan a “Super-Young-Con-Woman” and questioning her honesty.
He accused her of misusing over Ksh30 million that was donated to help youths hurt or killed during protests against the Finance Bill in June and July 2024.
“Hanifa should not be lecturing anyone on leadership, considering her history of integrity issues,” Atwoli said, challenging her to explain what happened to the funds instead of writing columns.
A public audit of the funds was released, but Atwoli’s comments increased the spotlight on Adan’s activism.
Adan, who is known for her strong activism and for organizing protests like the ones against the Finance Bill in 2024, has not directly answered Atwoli’s personal attacks. However, many supporters on social media are defending her, saying Atwoli is trying to silence a young critic.
“Old man Atwoli calling Hanifa a con lady is the joke of the year,” wrote one user, while another joked, “Hanifa will make Atwoli break his radio and TV!”
Others criticized Atwoli’s reaction, saying a seasoned trade union leader should focus on workers’ struggles instead of arguing online.
Atwoli defended COTU’s efforts to include young people, saying that more than 80% of its members are under 40, and youth representatives are part of its Executive Board.
“COTU represents young and old, employed and unemployed Kenyans, and youth leadership is not just about holding the Secretary General position,” he said, claiming his leadership has opened doors for young people.
This argument has sparked wider discussions about Kenya’s leadership situation, with some challenging Atwoli as part of an “old political class” that resists younger voices.
“They don’t want to see youths in the political space; those high positions are reserved for them,” posted one user. Others made fun of Atwoli’s focus on COTU’s leadership structure instead of addressing Adan’s main criticism about his long leadership.
Adan, who is a controversial figure because of her activism and involvement in protests, continues to be scrutinized regarding the protest funds.
Atwoli, who has been at the head of COTU for many years and aligns with influential political figures like Raila Odinga, has faced criticism in the past for defending his wealth and political connections.
As this online fight continues, it highlights the generational divide in Kenya’s political landscape, with Adan’s criticism and Atwoli’s response reflecting deeper issues over power, accountability, and the role of youth in shaping the country’s future.
