Teachers across Narok and Bomet counties are heading to the polls today to elect new branch officials in highly anticipated union elections that are expected to reshape local leadership.
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) branches in Narok, Bomet and Sotik, alongside the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Bomet branch, are conducting their elections amid heightened competition, particularly for the influential executive secretary positions.
In Narok, voting is taking place at William ole Ntimama Stadium, while KNUT Bomet members are casting their ballots at Itembe Secondary School.
KNUT Sotik members will be voting in Sotik town while their KUPPET branch counterparts conduct theirs in Bomet University.
At the Narok KNUT branch, the race for Executive Secretary has attracted significant attention. Incumbent Simiren Soyiantet is facing a strong challenge from immediate former Assistant Executive Secretary Moses Kamakei; the contest which is seen as a defining moment for the branch, with both candidates banking on their experience and grassroots networks.
The treasurer’s seat has drawn Wilson Tololo and Richard Kimiriny into a tight race, while the chairperson position pits incumbent Newton Koech against Lorna Chepkemoi in what observers describe as a competitive battle.
In the women representative slot, incumbent Ann Saramei faces off with Ann Bor.
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In KNUT Bomet, incumbent Executive Secretary Desmond Langat is facing a stiff challenge from former Assistant Executive Secretary Paul Sang. The contest is expected to test loyalty and influence within the branch.
Meanwhile, the KUPPET Bomet branch election has equally attracted attention. Immediate former Vice Chairperson Peter Kipkirui Bett, popularly known as “Microphone,” is leading a youthful team seeking to usher in new leadership. Bett is contesting for the Executive Secretary position against incumbent Paul Kimeto.
The chairperson race at KUPPET Bomet features incumbent Ernest Kirui, who is battling Emmanuel Ngeno and Bismarch Rono in a three-way contest.
With teachers turning out in large numbers, the elections are expected to set the tone for union leadership, representation and advocacy in the coming years. Results are anticipated later today.
By Philip Koech
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