The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Yatta Masinga branch is facing uncertainty ahead of its scheduled elections on Saturday, January 24, following the suspension of a key candidate under controversial circumstances.
What was initially seen as a competitive two-horse race has narrowed to a single contender after Richard M. Kitaka, popularly known as DNA, was declared ineligible to contest. The decision has sparked outrage among some teachers in the branch, who claim the move undermines democratic participation and transparency.
Education Newspaper has received a letter signed by Joseph Malel, Chairman of the KNUT National Election Board, dated January 21, 2026, regarding the suspension of Kitaka and his ineligibility to contest in the KNUT elections. The letter states:
“You were suspended from Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) on 3rd October, 2025 Vide Min.8 of 3rd October, 2025 and you were informed through a letter dated 11th October, 2025. After suspension, you were expected to appeal, which you did not and proceeded to campaign knowing very well that you were not eligible to contest in the KNUT Elections.”
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The letter further clarifies that all election complaints are being handled by the KNUT National Election Board and that Kitaka is free to appeal to the same. It also emphasizes the union’s expectation of decorum and respectful conduct from all members.
The timing of the suspension, delivered just as Kitaka awaited clearance, has drawn criticism from teachers and observers in the region. Some allege that the decision reflects a pattern of interference and intimidation within the Eastern region, pointing fingers at long-serving officials.
A section of teachers in Yatta Masinga have expressed frustration, accusing national officials of manipulating the electoral process and stifling branch autonomy. They argue that the exclusion of Kitaka from the ballot undermines the credibility of the election and may prompt legal challenges.
As of Friday evening, it remained unclear whether the elections would proceed as planned. Some educators have called for postponement until the matter is resolved, while others insist the vote must go on.
The KNUT National Election Board has not issued any further public statement on the matter.
By Masaki Enock
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