The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) will hold its highly anticipated national elections today at the Kasarani Gymnasium, with Secretary General Akello Misori leading a team of incumbents seeking to retain their positions.
The polls come amid heightened interest and internal tension following the exclusion of former Bomet Central MP Ronald Tonui from the race.
Tonui had declared his intention to challenge Misori for the secretary general post and had launched early campaigns to rally delegates. However, his name did not appear on the final list of candidates cleared to contest.
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.
His absence from the ballot has reignited debate within union ranks, particularly among members who viewed his bid as a major test for the current leadership.
Tonui previously served as KUPPET’s national assistant treasurer before he was ousted in a dispute that later spilled into court.
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The fallout followed his criticism of the union’s handling of the negotiations on teachers’ improved terms of service with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) in 2023.
He 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.
Despite the controversy, several key positions remain competitive. National Chairman Omboko Milemba, who is also the Emuhaya MP, will face Christine Agutu, a teacher at Lamu Girls High School. Vice Chairman Julius Korir is set to square off with Hassan Aden.
Misori, National Treasurer Mwethi Njenga, Organising Secretary Paul Maingi, and Deputy Secretary General Moses Nthurima are also defending their seats and unopposed.
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In the women’s representative race, Bungoma Women Representative Catherine Wambilianga will battle Juliet Kimotho. Secretary for Tertiary Institutions Sammy Chelanga faces Peris Kimutai, while Secondary Schools Secretary Edward Obwocha is challenged by Hellen Gathoni.
Meanwhile, the race for National Assistant Treasurer pits Kericho Branch Executive Secretary Mary Rotich against Lynette Kamadi of the Mombasa branch.
Misori has maintained that all preparations are complete and that the Ministry of Labour will oversee the exercise to ensure transparency.
As delegates gather at Kasarani, the outcome is expected to significantly influence the future direction and unity of one of Kenya’s most influential teachers’ unions.
By Philip Koech
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