“No More Cremations in My Family”: Francis Atwoli Speaks Out At Funeral of Daughter-in-Law Maureen Lukoye

Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli delivered an emotional tribute at the memorial service of his late daughter-in-law, Maureen Nyadida Lukoye, declaring that no other member of his family will be cremated while he lives.

The service, held on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi, brought together family, friends, and public figures to honor Maureen, who passed away on September 7, 2026, after an 11-year battle with cancer. She was the wife of Prof. Lukoye Atwoli, Dean of the Medical College East Africa at Aga Khan University and the union leader’s eldest son.

Speaking candidly during the tribute, Atwoli shared his internal conflict regarding the practice of cremation, noting that while the method is gaining traction in modern society, it runs counter to his personal cultural traditions. He clarified that he only permitted Maureen’s body to be cremated because her biological father had given his explicit consent to honor her final wishes.

Atwoli praised his son, Prof. Lukoye Atwoli, for his steadfast devotion, highlighting how he stood by his wife throughout her decade-long illness. Describing Maureen as a peacemaker, devoted mother, and deeply respected figure within the extended family, the COTU chief encouraged the public to embrace modern approaches to grief while firmly reiterating that his own household would adhere strictly to traditional burial customs moving forward.