By Erick Otieno
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Migori Branch yesterday conducted its officials’ elections in Migori Town, in an exercise that was peaceful, transparent and attracted a large turnout of teachers from across the Migori Branch.
The elections, which were keenly contested in several positions, were widely viewed as a litmus test for the branch Executive Secretary, Madam Roselyne Wandigi, who retained her seat unopposed. Other top officials who were also declared unopposed include the Migori Branch Chairman Mr Tom Mboya Nyabwa and the Branch Treasurer.
However, competition was evident in other posts, with Mr Bonnie Ochieng being elected Assistant Branch Treasurer after garnering 888 votes, while Sir Charles Ngoya was elected Assistant Executive Secretary.
Despite the top leadership positions going unopposed, the outcome of the elections presents a wait-and-see situation for the new executive office. Several officials who won through contested races are said not to be aligned to the Executive Secretary, a development that may pose a challenge in her new term.
In her maiden speech after the elections, Madam Wandigi thanked teachers for participating peacefully in the exercise.
“I sincerely thank all teachers for turning up in large numbers and for conducting themselves peacefully throughout the elections,” she said.
She further urged those who vied and lost to remain united and work together for the good of the union.
“Let us embrace unity and maintain a cordial working relationship as we move forward to serve teachers better,” she added.
The exercise was witnessed by national KNUT officials, among them Ms Mercy Muthoni Ndungu, the KNUT National Second Woman Representative for the Western Region, who commended the Migori Branch for organizing a peaceful and transparent election.
“The Migori Branch has set a good example of democratic practice. The turnout was impressive and the process was credible,” said Ms Muthoni.
She called on the newly elected officials to serve teachers with integrity, justice and commitment.
“Leadership is a responsibility. Those elected should uphold integrity and fairness as they serve their fellow teachers,” she noted.
The KNUT Migori Branch elections mark the beginning of a new leadership term, with teachers keenly watching how the new team will work together to advance their welfare and union interests.
