The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has launched preparations for its 2026 Branch General Elections, issuing a detailed circular outlining procedures, eligibility requirements and logistical expectations for all branches across the country.
The circular was written and signed by the KNUT Secretary General, Collins Henry Oyuu, and dated December 17, 2025. It was addressed to all KNUT Branch Executive Secretaries and formally notified them of the commencement of branch-level elections ahead of the 2026 cycle.
In the document, Oyuu explained that the directive followed official communication from the Registrar of Trade Unions. “This is in reference to the above-mentioned subject and the Registrar’s letter Ref. ML&SP/TU/ADM/23 dated September 25, 2025, notifying us of Trade Union Elections,” the circular states.
The union leadership emphasised that strict compliance with the law and the KNUT Constitution would be required throughout the election process. Branch officials were instructed to give members adequate notice before polling day, with the circular directing branches to “send out notice at least 14 days before the election date specifying the date and venue.”
Security and organisation were highlighted as critical elements of the process. Branches were instructed to “book for a secure venue” and to “inform and get sufficient security personnel for the venue” to ensure orderly and credible elections.
On ballot integrity, the circular directed that branches must “prepare ballot papers for all ordinary BEC positions, including those of specialised interests as created by the BEC and take them to the Labour Office for stamping and custody.”
It went ahead and clarified that ballot papers for Persons With Disabilities and the Steering category, including the Woman Representative, would be printed from the Head Office.
Gender representation was reinforced through a direct quotation from the union constitution.
“Every Branch may create BEC positions to provide for representation of preferred categories of teachers and endeavour to ensure as far as possible one third (1/3) of members of the BEC are of either gender,” the circular reads.
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Clear timelines were also provided for nominations, with Oyuu stating that “nomination of Branch elections candidates should be done 1 (one) day before the Election Day at the election venue.”
Members participating in the elections were reminded to carry proper identification, as “members are required to bring with them their National Identity cards and latest payslip showing membership in KNUT.”
The Secretary General further urged members to regularise their union status ahead of the elections. “Members are encouraged to continue regularising their membership records through paying cash deposits or issuing Standing Orders with their respective Banks,” the circular states.
The document was copied to key offices, including the Cabinet Secretaries for Labour and Social Protection, Education, and Interior and Coordination of National Government, the Labour Commissioner, the Registrar of Trade Unions, as well as the KNUT National Chairman and National Treasurer.
By Joseph Mambili
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