History inked as KNUT Marakwet gets first woman Executive Secretary

The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Marakwet branch has elected the first women to the position of Executive Secretary making history in the union leadership.

 In a historic win, Salome Kiplagat, a seasoned educator, defeated the long-serving Executive Secretary John Cheberi in a hotly contested election, garnering 482 votes against 459 of the incumbent showing a 46% support of the votes cast.

Others who contested for the top seat included Ben chebii who got 136 votes and Evans Cherungu who came a distant fourth after garnering 26 votes.

In her maiden speech, Kiplagat promised to prioritize the welfare of teachers, emphasizing her commitment to addressing issues affecting the profession.

“As the first woman to hold this position, I promise to work tirelessly for the interest of our members,” Kiplagat said. “We will focus on improving working conditions, promoting teacher welfare, and advocating for quality education in our region.”

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The election was marked by intense competition, with Kiplagat’s victory seen as a major upset to Cheberi who had been in the helm since 2011. However, her message of change and dedication to teachers’ rights resonated with voters.

Kiplagat’s win is expected to usher in a new era of leadership in the Marakwet branch, with many educators looking forward to her tenure.

In other posts Yano Evans was elected the vice secretary as Julias Chebunet clinching the chairperson slot deputized by Mike Rutto.

Bartolomew Kilimo won the treasurer docket with Julian chebii as the assistant unopposed. Eunice Komen won the women representative seat garnering 796 votes against sole challenger Everline Sutter who got 272 votes.

By Philemon Kiprop