Ronald Kiprotich Tonui has revealed that teachers’ numerous problems pushed him to contest for the Kenya Union of Post Primary Teachers (KUPPET) Secretary General seat in order to salvage them and restore hope in the teaching profession.
Speaking during a one on one interview with Education News, the former Baringo Central law maker said that he has interacted with teachers across the country and listened to their struggles, noting that Secretary General’s office should be a strong voice to air their grievances.
“My decision comes from years of interaction with teachers across the country. I have listened to their struggles—issues of promotions, fair remuneration, workload, and professional dignity. I believe the Secretary General’s office should be a strong voice that defends teachers boldly, transparently, and consistently. I want to bring energy, accountability, and inclusivity to that office.” He said
Tonui, who said that serving at various post in the Union gave him grassroots experience, added that the time is ripe to occupy the national office and handle teachers’ struggles.
“As the KUPPET Bomet Executive Secretary, I worked directly with teachers, handled grievances, and coordinated union programs. As Assistant National Treasurer, I gained experience in financial management and national union operations. These roles have taught me responsibility, transparency, and strategic leadership, which are essential qualities for a Secretary General.” He said
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With improved remuneration and fight for more allowances for teachers through strong negotiations, timely promotions and career progression for all deserving teachers, protection of teachers’ rights and welfare, including legal support, strengthening union transparency and accountability in management of resources, and actualize autonomy of Junior schools delinking them from primary schools; being his key five priorities, Tonui maintained that teachers must feel that their union truly works for them.
He promised to push for structured promotion timelines with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and ensure fairness in the process. Every teacher deserves a clear career path based on merit and experience in order to address promotion delays and stagnation.
On his sour relationship with the current union leadership, Tonui admitted that he is not in cordial talks, noting that this is due to his firm and principled stand against certain Constitution clauses introduced in the amended union constitution which, his view, are draconian and not in the best interest of teachers.
“My position has always been guided by the need to safeguard the rights and democratic space of our members. I strongly believe that any constitutional amendments should be transparent, inclusive, and truly reflective of the will of teachers.”
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“Should teachers entrust me with the position of Secretary General for the 2026–2031 term, I will prioritize reviewing and revisiting those contentious provisions with the aim of making the constitution more teacher-friendly, democratic, and protective of members’ rights. My commitment is to ensure that our union’s governing framework works for teachers, not against them.” He said
Evoking his ‘Servant leadership- pro teachers style’ philosophy, Tonui reiterated that leadership is not about titles; it is about service saying that a union leader must listen to teachers, consult widely, and act decisively in defending their interests. “Transparency, integrity, and teamwork will guide my leadership.”
He called upon teachers across Kenya to participate actively in the democratic process of our union. “Together, we can build a stronger, transparent, and more responsive KUPPET. I humbly ask for tyour support so that we can work together to protect the dignity, welfare, and future of teachers.” He said
He finally urged teachers to concentrate on his track record as a teacher, union leader and service to the teaching fraternity, promising to be a dedicated voice for teachers and to serve with honesty and commitment.
“I have served teachers faithfully at both branch and national levels. I understand their challenges and I have the experience to address them. My promise is simple: to be a dedicated voice for teachers and to serve with honesty and commitment.” He said
By Wesley Chelule
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