Justus Mulei: Man who steered Cotu in 80s and made money while at it

Kalonzo Musyoka, Francis Atwoli and Enoch Wambua at the burial of Justus Mulei. [Paul Mutua, Standard]

Justus Mulei was a notable personality in Kenya and an influential figure within the trade union movement. He served as Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) from 1981 to 1986.

He was elected to the position after the then incumbent Juma Boy passed away while in office.

Mulei’s time came at a moment when trade unions in the country had a close working relationship with the ruling party, KANU.

At this time, the government had massive control over the labour movements and trade unions in the country.

Essentially, COTU and other trade unions at this time were part of KANU’S political machinery and thus did not have autonomy to run their operations.

He was succeeded by Joseph Mugalla after the end of his tenure in 1986.

There are no known revolutionary changes in COTU recorded under Mulei’s tenure.

However, his role in this organization was that of a stabilizer, facilitating COTU’s notable political influence and engagement in labour activities.

His leadership was part of a wider trend which saw trade unions yield to the whims of the then ruling party, KANU.

It was also a reflection of the increasing politicised nature of labour matters during that period in history.

His position in COTU, alongside the then political environment apparently gave Mulei crucial access to power structures. This factor was quite important for political and unions leaders to amass wealth. Mulei invested in a number of businesses including retail stores and supermarkets, ranches, farming among others.

Mulei passed away in November 2006 and was laid to rest in Kitui County. 

Influential figures graced his burial ceremony. They included current COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli and other political leaders.