Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Deputy Secretary-General Hesbon Otieno has cautioned former SG Wilson Sossion against making a comeback to the union’s top leadership, insisting that the former boss should “stick to politics” and stop disrupting the union’s internal stability.
Speaking after attending a church fundraiser at AGUC Chekeilek in Mogogosiek Ward, Konoin Sub-county, Bomet County, Otieno dismissed rumours that Sossion—who also hails from Bomet—may challenge incumbent Secretary-General Collins Oyuu in next year’s KNUT elections.
He said the union is not ready to entertain what he termed “political interference” in the upcoming polls.
Otieno emphasised that Bomet already has a senior representative at the national level, the First National Vice Chairman, Malel Langat, who was present at the event.
He said they are entirely in support of Langat, praising him as a capable leader who has demonstrated loyalty and stability within the union.
“Bomet has Malel Langat holding a key national post. We don’t want people who will bring confusion to the national office and disturb the good work he is doing,” Otieno said.
He added: “We are ready to stand with Langat because he has already shown strong leadership during the time he has been in the national office.”
READ ALSO:
German language corner opened in Kisumu Library under Kisumu–Gersthofen MoU
The deputy SG noted that Sossion contested the Bomet Senate seat and lost, arguing that anyone interested in political contests should pursue them fully instead of oscillating between politics and union leadership.
“He had his chance in KNUT. He vied for a seat in the Senate in Bomet and lost. If he wants elections, let him continue with political seats and leave union politics to those already serving,” Otieno stated.
Otieno assured union members that the upcoming elections will strictly follow the KNUT constitution and the provisions of the Labour Relations Act.
He urged all members to prepare for the polls and participate in choosing leaders who will strengthen—not destabilise—the union.
The emerging tension adds a new twist to the build-up towards early next year’s KNUT national elections, where internal alignments, regional endorsements, and historical loyalties are expected to play a major role.
By Philip Koech
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
