The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Wajir Branch has ushered in a new leadership team committed to advancing teachers’ welfare, strengthening professional representation, and enhancing advocacy for educators across the county.
The elections, held at the County Commissioner’s office in Wajir, attracted a strong, estimated 80 per cent, turnout of teachers from primary, secondary, and junior secondary schools across the county.
Observers hailed the process as transparent and orderly and a significant step in strengthening union leadership at the grassroots level.
In the hotly contested polls, Yussuf Hassan was elected Executive Secretary with 351 votes, defeating Aaron Musiyimi, who garnered 300 votes.
Hassan, who currently represents Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers, has been credited with strengthening the voice of this newly established level within the union.
Ali Mohamed Bash won the Chairperson’s position after securing 493 votes, beating Abdikadir Bishar, who received 161 votes. Two ballots were spoilt.
Abdiladif Adan emerged as Treasurer with 400 votes, defeating his opponent, who obtained 254 votes. Other branch executive positions were also filled, completing a leadership lineup combining experience with fresh energy.
National KUPPET official Sammy Chellimo, who supervised the election, advised the new leadership to prioritise dialogue, accountability, and teachers’ welfare.
“Leadership is a trust given by members. The new team must prioritise dialogue, accountability and the welfare of teachers. Strong branches build a strong national union,” he said.
Wajir Labour Officer Mr. Jaffar Haji congratulated the winners and urged members to remain united. “Today you have demonstrated that democratic processes can be conducted with dignity and order. Let us maintain this unity and continue showing the maturity the teachers’ fraternity has displayed,” he said.
In his acceptance remarks, Chairperson-elect called for unity among teachers and said he would prioritise addressing staffing gaps, learning resources, and welfare issues.
“This victory belongs to all teachers. We competed as colleagues and will now move forward as one union,” he said.
Executive Secretary-elect pledged inclusive leadership and a focus on teachers’ rights and professional development.
“This mandate is about service to all teachers. We will work to safeguard teachers’ rights and improve working conditions,” he said.
Treasurer-elect emphasised transparency in managing union funds. “Members must have confidence that their contributions are properly managed. Transparency and accountability in the use of union funds will be a key pillar of this leadership,” he said.
Teachers expressed optimism that the new leadership would strengthen engagement on promotions, hardship allowances, staffing shortages, medical cover, and improved learning environments.
By Hamdi Buthul
