A fresh independent opinion poll conducted among Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) members in the Narok Branch shows Ms Lorna Chepkemoi as the clear frontrunner for branch chairperson, ahead of incumbent Newton Koech.
The survey, conducted between December 15 and December 20, 2025, sampled 488 KNUT-registered teachers, drawn proportionally from the Narok West, Narok South, Narok Central, Narok East, and Narok North sub-counties.
Data was collected through face-to-face interviews and structured phone calls, with a margin of error of ±4.5 per cent at a 95 per cent confidence level.
According to the findings, Chepkemoi enjoys strong branch-wide momentum, reflecting what analysts describe as a growing appetite among teachers for inclusive, consultative and responsive leadership.
In Narok West, Chepkemoi posts a commanding lead, garnering 62 per cent support against Koech’s 38 per cent. Teachers interviewed in the area cited dissatisfaction with the incumbent’s engagement style and praised Chepkemoi for her accessibility and willingness to listen.
Her advantage widens further in Narok South, where she polls 64 per cent compared to Koech’s 36 per cent. Respondents pointed to fatigue with long-serving leadership and expressed optimism that Chepkemoi’s candidacy represents renewed unity and inclusion within the branch.
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The incumbent, however, retains an edge in Narok Central, where he leads with 55 per cent against Chepkemoi’s 45 per cent. Supporters attributed this to incumbency advantage and long-established networks, though many acknowledged Chepkemoi’s growing credibility.
In Narok East, the contest remains tight, with Koech narrowly ahead at 53 per cent, while Chepkemoi follows closely at 47 per cent. Teachers described the race here as highly competitive, noting that Chepkemoi’s steady outreach and issue-based messaging continue to gain traction.
Narok North emerges as a key swing sub-county, with both candidates tied at 50 per cent.
Analysts say turnout and final campaign engagements are likely to determine the outcome in the area.
Overall, the combined results across the Narok Branch place Chepkemoi at 56 per cent support against Koech’s 44 per cent, with less than one per cent of respondents undecided.
Teachers backing Chepkemoi consistently cited the need for fresh leadership, improved consultation between branch officials and members, and a people-centred approach. While supporters of the incumbent pointed to experience, many conceded that pressure for change is mounting.
“This poll points to a clear demand for leadership renewal,” observed one analyst, noting that
Chepkemoi’s strong performance in Narok West and South has given her a decisive advantage across the branch.
By Philip Koech
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