The battle for leadership within the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) took a dramatic turn this week as current Secretary General Collins Oyuu hit back at former SG Wilson Sossion’s attempt to reclaim his position. In a press briefing on Tuesday, March 24, Oyuu strongly rejected Sossion’s bid, asserting that it violates the union’s constitution, which prohibits former members from re-entering leadership roles.
Oyuu, who took over as SG in June 2021, firmly stated that the union’s constitution does not allow for the “recycling” of leadership, citing Sossion’s tenure as SG from 2013 to 2021 as a completed chapter. “The KNUT constitution is clear,” Oyuu stated. “You cannot come back and vie for a position if you are no longer a member of the union.”
Sossion, who led the union for nearly a decade, announced his intent to run for SG again in an interview on Radio Generation, stating that his return would help revitalize the union’s leadership. He drew a parallel to the biblical figure Moses, likening his return to rescuing teachers from the “wilderness” of disorganization. Sossion emphasized that the leadership should be handed over to active teachers, not retirees, challenging Oyuu to step down due to his age.
Oyuu, however, stood firm in his response, asserting his eligibility to seek another term despite rumors about his age and eligibility. “The constitution clearly states the qualifications for the role, and I am well within those bounds,” he added, reinforcing his stance that only the union’s constitution would guide leadership eligibility.
This public confrontation has stirred debate among union members as the April 3 elections approach, with both sides preparing for a fierce contest over the future direction of KNUT.