KUPPET Chairman Omboko Milemba firmly addressed critics of the union’s constitutional amendment process, stating that the union had the court’s backing for the proposed changes. Speaking during the 26th Annual Delegates Conference (ADC), which was recently held at a Vihiga hotel, Milemba acknowledged the event’s turbulent start but highlighted its eventual success.
“The day felt overwhelming, but we thank God for our success. Chaos is inherent in unions. While constitutional amendments often encounter pushback from a few, they usually gain acceptance from the majority. I appreciate our members for ensuring a peaceful day and for protecting both the chairman and Secretary General,” he remarked.
Tensions arose when former Assistant National Treasurer Ronald Tonui—recently removed from his position by court order—arrived at the meeting. Tonui claimed to possess a court order directed at KUPPET Secretary General Akelo Misori, which he alleged would halt his removal. He further criticized the amendment process, asserting it lacked transparency and violated members’ rights.
“The amendment process bypassed public participation at the branch level, denying members the opportunity to provide input, and many do not fully understand the proposed changes,” Tonui argued.
In response, Secretary General Akelo Misori outlined the union’s rationale for the amendments, emphasizing plans to expand its leadership structure. Proposed changes include creating positions for a first and second assistant national gender secretary, additional gender secretaries, and an assistant national secretary for junior secondary. Misori also mentioned plans to compile issues affecting junior secondary teachers for board consideration.
Other amendments proposed increasing nomination fees for leadership positions: Sh500,000 for the national general secretary, chairman, and treasurer, and Sh300,000 for deputy and other key roles.
“We want leaders who are committed and will stand by teachers during industrial actions. These fees aren’t meant to exclude anyone; rather, they reflect a candidate’s dedication and seriousness about leading the union,” Misori explained.
Tonui maintained the importance of proper procedure, advocating for a secret ballot vote and adherence to the two-thirds majority rule to ensure legitimacy. Despite the heated debate, Milemba reiterated the union’s commitment to reform while ensuring its processes remain within legal and ethical boundaries.
