The race for the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Bomet Branch Assistant Executive Secretary has taken a decisive turn, with a new opinion poll showing Geff Bett, popularly known among teachers as “OCS,” widening his lead against his closest challenger, Lily Chumo, nicknamed the “Iron Lady.”
According to the independent survey conducted between October 21–24, 2025, OCS now commands 72 percent of support among KNUT-registered teachers in Bomet County.
The poll sampled 396 teachers from the county’s four sub-counties — Bomet Central, Bomet East, Chepalungu, and Konoin — through both phone and face-to-face interviews. It carries a margin of error of ±3.2 percent.
In Bomet Central, OCS garnered 70 percent against Chumo’s 30 percent, with teachers praising his calm demeanor and track record of reliability in union affairs.
In Bomet East, he registered his strongest support at 74 percent, with many citing his grassroots connection and collaborative leadership style.
In Chepalungu, OCS maintained a commanding 78 percent, where respondents described him as “approachable, understanding, and always available when needed.”
Even in Konoin, traditionally considered Chumo’s stronghold, OCS still led with 67 percent to 33 percent.
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According to the teachers interviewed, they described Bett as a “unifier” and a “problem-solver” who listens before acting.
“He understands the daily struggles of teachers and always finds time to respond,” said a teacher from Bomet East who requested anonymity. “His humility and accessibility make him the people’s choice.”
Local political analyst Elijah Rono noted that OCS’s consistency and friendly rapport with members have made him the preferred candidate countywide.
“His ability to listen, build consensus, and maintain discipline gives him an edge that’s hard to beat,” Rono said.
While Chumo, the “Iron Lady,” is respected for her firmness and energy, the poll suggests her campaign may have been hampered by perceptions of limited consultation and a confrontational approach.
Despite that, she still enjoys pockets of loyal support, especially among long-serving teachers who value her outspokenness.
With just months to the branch elections, the momentum appears to favor OCS, whose message of unity, welfare improvement, and renewed trust in KNUT’s leadership continues to resonate.
The poll’s outcome cements his status as the clear front-runner, with many observers predicting a decisive victory if the current trends hold.
“Teachers in Bomet want change that’s peaceful and focused on results,” said another respondent. “OCS represents that new kind of leadership.”
By Philip Koech
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