The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), Kisumu chapter, has cautioned senior education officials in the region against interfering with the branch elections slated for January 11.
Area Executive Secretary Zablon Awange alleged that certain ministry officials and senior principals have been disbursing large sums of money to his opponents in an attempt to unseat him. He insisted, however, that members will not be swayed by threats or intimidation into electing leaders who cannot defend their rights.
Speaking in Kisumu, Awange pointed to his track record, noting that he is the only holder of the position to have successfully defended his seat twice. “I am aware that a top TSC official at the headquarters has been giving out cash to some of my opponents, but let me assure him that the scheme will not succeed,” he said.
Awange highlighted his efforts since the election, including pushing for promotions of teachers who have stagnated in one position for years and advocating for equal distribution of enhanced hardship allowances across the county. He added that unresolved issues remain, such as autonomy for junior school teachers, stalled promotions, and inadequate medical cover.
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He lamented that many members have died due to failures of the medical scheme, with four bodies of teachers still lying in morgues across the county. “Poor medical conditions have subjected our members to untold suffering,” he said.
Awange will face off against current county sports secretary George Osura, who has maintained a low profile since declaring his candidacy. Confident of victory, Awange said he expects his team to secure a clean sweep as campaigns intensify in the weeks leading up to the polls.
He further stressed that only bona fide members will be allowed to participate in the election exercise, underscoring the union’s commitment to fairness and transparency.
By Fredrick Odiero
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