Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Secretary General Collins Oyuu has expressed confidence in retaining his seat as the union heads into a special delegates conference at Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu. Oyuu, alongside nearly all members of the national steering committee, will face no challengers after emerging as sole candidates during the nomination stage.
Oyuu, who presented his nomination papers without facing any challenger, will be joined by other top officials who also sailed through the nomination stage uncontested. They include National Chairman Patrick Karinga (Munuhe), Deputy Secretary‑General Hezbon Otieno, First National Vice‑Chairman Malel Langat, and Second National Vice‑Chairman Aggrey Namisi.
Speaking ahead of the polls, Oyuu expressed confidence in retaining his position, citing his track record since assuming leadership at a time when the union was struggling. He noted that KNUT’s membership had grown from 9,000 when he took over to more than 180,000 today.
“My wish is to take the leadership where it belongs, like during the days of the late Ambrose Adeya Adongo and John Katumanga,” he said, adding that his administration had restored stability and strengthened the union after years of turbulence.
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Oyuu cautioned politicians against interfering in KNUT affairs, warning delegates to be wary of aspirants allegedly working with outsiders to influence the vote. “Teachers know where we have come from with this union and what we have done to strengthen it. I appeal to teachers to shun aspirants whose main intention is to impede the gains which the union has made,” he said.
In a veiled attack on one of his critics, Oyuu remarked: “It is very unfortunate that somebody is referring to himself as biblical Moses yet he cannot lead anybody anywhere.”
He urged delegates to vote wisely, stressing that his leadership had enjoyed support from the majority of regions across the country. Oyuu also reminded members that their five‑year term had ended and called for calm during the elections.
By Fredrick Odiero
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