The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Bomet branch vice chairperson Kibet Samoei has expressed disappointment following the exclusion of former Bomet Central Member of Parliament (MP) Ronald Tonui from the ballot during the National Executive Board (NEB) elections held at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani yesterday.
The closely watched elections drew delegates from across the country in a highly anticipated leadership contest that attracted significant political interest within union ranks.
However, the exercise was overshadowed by concerns over the nomination and clearance process after Tonui’s name failed to appear on the final list of candidates.
Tonui had declared his intention to challenge incumbent Secretary General Akello Misori and had embarked on early campaigns to rally delegates nationwide.
His absence from the ballot sparked debate among members who viewed his bid as a major test of the current leadership. Samoei added the decision had left many supporters disillusioned.
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“We are disappointed by the exclusion of Ronald Tonui from the ballot. Take heart, we shall rise again. We may not achieve the meaningful change that we have always sought. May God fight our war,” Samoei said, echoing the sentiments of a section of delegates.
Although Tonui could not be reached for official comment, it is understood that he informed his supporters he had been locked out of the election.
Tonui previously served as KUPPET’s National Assistant Treasurer before he was ousted in a dispute that later spilled into court.
The fallout followed his criticism of the union’s handling of the 2023 negotiations on improved teachers’ terms of service with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
He had accused top officials of rushing into an agreement that had initially been negotiated under the Kenya Union of Special Needs Education Teachers (KUSNET) framework, arguing that the final deal did not adequately benefit KUPPET members.
The controversy surrounding his exclusion has reignited internal debate within the union, with some members calling for greater transparency and fairness in future nomination processes
Despite the tension, the elections proceeded as scheduled, ushering in a new National Executive Board amid heightened scrutiny from stakeholders across the education sector.
By Philip Koech
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