The outspoken and fiery Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Migori Branch Executive Secretary Orwa Jasolo has been floored by the former KUPPET chair Henry Otunga, taking over the leadership after a hotly contested election held at Sony Grounds yesterday.
Jasolo’s defeat marked a dramatic political upset in Migori’s teachers’ union politics and signaled a clear shift in mood among delegates.
The elections, which drew hundreds of teachers from across the county, were tense and closely watched, with emotions running high throughout the day.
Chaos briefly erupted during vote counting as rival camps disputed tallies, forcing security officers to intervene and restore order. Despite the disruptions, the process was completed and results officially declared.
Otunga, running under the Team Charismatics banner, rode on a campaign anchored on accountability, welfare, solidarity and strong advocacy, messages that appeared to resonate with teachers eager for change.
His victory was widely interpreted as a rejection of entrenched leadership and a demand for fresh ideas at the branch.
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Alongside Otunga, a largely new team was elected to office. Kevin Odhiambo (Kevo) was elected Chairperson, Bernard Obonyo became Vice Chairperson while May Abong’o clinched the Treasurer position.
Rollex Owino was elected Assistant Executive Secretary, and Denis Ong’ong’e took over as Organising Secretary.
Other officials elected include Bon Ogalo as Assistant Treasurer, Fred Nyabuogi as Secretary Secondary, Nyojero as Secretary Tertiary and Lilian Ogutu as Secretary Gender, assisted by Magai, Mildred Adagala, and Harriet Okoth.
The fall of Jasolo, a vocal and influential figure in teachers’ union circles in Migori, is expected to reshape local union dynamics, particularly relations between KNUT and KUPPET affiliates.
Many delegates described the outcome as a “teachers’ revolt” against long-standing leadership. As the dust settles, attention now shifts to whether Otunga and his team can unite the branch after a divisive contest and deliver on promises to improve teachers’ welfare, transparency and representation across Migori County.
By Odoyo Miranda
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