KUPPET Kiambu Branch Campaigns Gather Pace Ahead of January 2026 Elections

Robert Kimani, a teacher at Thika High School and a contender for the Kiambu County KUPPET Chairperson seat, addresses the press in Thika.

Campaigns for the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Kiambu Branch elections, scheduled for January 10, 2026, are gaining momentum as teachers across the county prepare to choose new leaders to represent their interests.

Several candidates have stepped forward, each outlining their vision for a stronger, more inclusive and more effective union that speaks directly to classroom realities.

One of the key contenders is Robert Kimani, a Computer and Mathematics teacher at Thika High School, who is vying for the position of Kiambu County KUPPET Chairperson. Kimani says his decision to run is driven by a desire for long-term, active leadership.

“I am a classroom teacher and I am offering myself because I still have more than 20 years to serve teachers. Some of my competitors are nearing retirement, meaning teachers may end up being represented by leaders who are already at home,” he said.

Kimani says his leadership will focus on unity among teachers, improved medical schemes and bringing the union closer to schools through regular town hall meetings.

“Many teachers don’t even know elections are happening or which positions exist. This information has been kept on shelves. I want the union to be felt in classrooms and schools, so teachers regain confidence in their own representation,” he noted.

He also highlighted the importance of Kiambu’s voice at the national level, noting that under the amended KUPPET constitution, the county sends about 60 delegates to the Annual Delegates Conference.

“Kiambu is the bedroom of teachers. Our numbers give us strength in national union politics. I don’t want to promise what I cannot deliver. What we have now must be made effective,” Kimani said.

Also on the campaign trail is Gubito Maingi, a teacher from MaryHill Girls High School, who is contesting for Kiambu Branch Assistant Secretary, representing teachers living with disabilities (PWDs).

Maingi says his campaign is centered on inclusion, data-driven advocacy and full implementation of existing policies.

“I am vying to fight for teachers living with disabilities. This includes enforcing the 5 per cent inclusion in promotions for PWD teachers in Kiambu.” he said.

He plans to mobilise the collection of data on PWD teachers, organise forums to discuss their challenges and formally present their concerns to the Teachers Service Commission and the Ministry of Education through the KUPPET leadership structure.

“I will also ensure PWD teachers are educated on their rights, such as tax exemptions and guide allowances and that these provisions are implemented to the letter,” Maingi added.

Meanwhile, David Omindo, a teacher at Don Bosco School Ituru in Gatundu South, is seeking election as Kiambu Branch Secretary for Secondary Schools. Omindo says his strength lies in lived experience.

“As a regular teacher, I understand the real challenges we face because I have been there. For instance, I have been stuck in one job group for the last 12 years.”

Having taught in Kiambu County for 15 years, Omindo believes his familiarity with the region gives him an edge.

“I know the geography and the needs of teachers here. I’ve spoken to many colleagues and listened to their pleas,” he said, urging teachers to turn out and vote.

As the January 2026 polls draw closer, teachers across Kiambu County are being encouraged to engage with the campaigns, understand the candidates’ agendas, and participate actively in shaping the future of their union.