Campaigns for the Kenya National Union of Teachers Masaba branch have intensified with incumbents calling for unity among teachers as they head for crucial polls scheduled for later this month.
Incumbent secretary general Meshack Ombong’i and his deputy James Oteki are tipped to retain their seats due to absence of challengers so far, but stiff competition is expected in the organising secretary, treasurer and chairperson seats, with a host of competitors already throwing their hats into the ring.
On Tuesday, Oteki urged teachers to campaign peacefully by respecting the rule of law, and maintained that unity was fundamental than elections.
“Having elections among us shows that we embrace democracy but we should not divide the union just because we are engaging in a competition which lasts for just a month. As teachers, we have to remain united and forge forward as a team as we engage our perennial enemies,’ he said.
His remarks were echoed by Ombongi who called for fairness in the contest and urged competitors’ to lead by example by dissociating themselves from bribing voters.
“As teachers, we ought to lead by example and give our brothers in national politics something worth to emulate. Bribing voters is detrimental and sabotages election of good leaders. Otherwise, let’s remain united and bear in mind that elections will come and go. Cut throat competition should be considered healthy but must be done within the regulations,” he said.