KNUT Meru South elects officials as Mutani retains Executive Secretary seat

The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Meru South Branch Teachers on Saturday turned up in large numbers to elect new leaders.

The election exercises held at PCEA Town Church in Chuka, were conducted in a calm atmosphere, with union officials and members describing the process as free, fair and transparent.

Incumbent Executive Secretary Njeru Mutani retained his position after being re-elected unopposed, a move seen as a strong vote of confidence in his leadership.

Denis Murithi was elected as the branch chairman, while several other officials were also elected to various positions to complete the branch leadership team.

Speaking after the polls, Mutani thanked teachers for trusting him with another opportunity to lead, saying the outcome reflected unity and confidence among union members.

“I am grateful to the Meru South teachers for the trust they have shown in me. I promise to continue serving them diligently and to ensure that their welfare is well taken care of,” said Mutani.

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He noted that his leadership would focus on strengthening the branch and enhancing teachers’ representation at the national level, adding that he intends to seek a position as a national trustee to better articulate the interests of teachers from the region.

Mutani also raised concern over teachers who are not registered members of KNUT but are currently paying agency fees, explaining that the deductions are imposed on teachers who have not joined a trade union.

“About 501 teachers are not KNUT members and are paying agency fees. This fee is not meant for KNUT; it is a penalty charged to teachers who have not joined a trade union,” he said.

He urged teachers currently under the agency fee arrangement to formally join KNUT so that they could fully benefit from union services and representation.

“When teachers join KNUT, they can be served as members and enjoy full union protection,” Mutani added.

The KNUT Meru South Branch leadership expressed optimism that the newly elected officials would champion teachers’ rights, improve working conditions and strengthen engagement with education stakeholders across the region.

By Juma Ndigo