Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli has publicly voiced his opposition to cremation following the death and final rites of his daughter-in-law, Maureen Nyadida Lukoye.
"That thing is associated with a cult. It is satanic."
"Cremation is not within Christianity nor Islamic, it is not allowed."
Read Also
Appearing on Jeff Koinange Live, the veteran trade union leader revealed an internal rift within his family over the arrangement.
While he offered personal support to his eldest son, Prof. Lukoye Atwoli, during his period of grief, the COTU chief made it clear that he vehemently opposes the practice.
Maureen passed away on September 7, 2026, after a four-year battle with cancer. She was cremated on September 17 at the Kariokor Crematorium in Nairobi, following a funeral service at All Saints' Cathedral, in accordance with the written instructions left in her will.
Religious and Traditional Arguments
During the television broadcast, Atwoli argued that cremation contradicts both Christian and Islamic teachings.
To support his stance, he referenced the biblical account of Lazarus, questioning how bodily resurrection could take place if a body had been turned to ashes.
"Jesus came... and Lazarus came out of the dead. So if I come out of the dead, I'm a Lazarus — what would have happened?"
Atwoli also shared that viewing a video recording of the cremation process left him deeply disturbed and unsettled.
Strict Warning to Children and Friends
The veteran unionist used the interview to lay down strict directives regarding future final rites for his immediate household.
He informed his family and church congregation that any of his biological children who pass away before him will be buried strictly through traditional methods, regardless of their written directives.
Turning to show host Jeff Koinange, who had reportedly expressed a desire to be cremated, Atwoli vowed to take legal and physical measures to stop any such plans, promising to enforce a traditional African burial instead.
"I will hire one of the best lawyers... and make sure I and my guns would have buried you in an African ceremony."
