Campaigns for the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Kisumu City branch have entered the final stretch as aspirants step up efforts to woo members ahead of the polls scheduled for January 24.
Executive Secretary David Obuon will face off against BEC member Jeckonia Owino, a teacher at Xaverian School, and former BEC member Dan Omuga of Nyangande. In the chairman’s race, incumbent Elly Otieno will battle Evans Dolla, the current head of Kondele School.
Obuon has expressed confidence in retaining his seat, citing his track record since taking office, when membership was at its lowest. He says the branch now boasts 2,500 members, crediting his leadership with reviving the union from its weakest point in 2021. According to him, extensive recruitment efforts have strengthened the branch’s collective voice.
He highlights his role in supporting members during difficult times, including assisting bereaved families, bailing out colleagues in distress, and helping those with serious illnesses. Obuon also cites his efforts to safeguard members’ savings, salvaging shares in Dumisha SACCO to secure financial stability.
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The secretary adds that he has consistently advocated for teachers’ transfers, promotions, and redeployment to support career growth. He revealed that the branch is close to acquiring a union bus to improve services for members. “I ensured our KNUT school representatives are equipped with the skills and knowledge to serve our members better through targeted training programs,” he said.
Obuon explained that the branch previously covered Kisumu East, inconveniencing members in distant areas. Under his initiative, regions such as Kisumu East, Kadibo, Kisumu West, and Muhoroni are now included. He further noted that the office has been rebranded and digitized to modernize operations.
However, Owino has criticized Obuon for failing to establish an office complex like other branches across the country.
The Kisumu branch is credited with hosting the KNUT national annual conference, a milestone Obuon says reflects the branch’s growing influence.
Current office bearers include Executive Secretary David Obuon, Chairman Elly Otieno, Vice Chairman David Onege, Treasurer Victor Ndolo, Assistant Executive Secretary Mathews Evans Ong’wen, Woman Representative Grace Osumba, and Assistant Treasurer Kennedy Wasingo.
By Fredrick Odiero
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