Lecturers at the University of Nairobi will cast their votes today in a highly anticipated election for the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) chapter. This election is poised to have a significant impact not only on campus leadership but also on union politics throughout Kenya’s public universities.
Taking place at the 8-4-4 Multi-Purpose Building on the main campus, the vote concludes weeks of discreet yet vigorous mobilization among academic staff, primarily facilitated through faculty networks and closed WhatsApp groups.
While the campaigns have remained largely private, the stakes are undeniably high.
At the heart of this contest lies the leadership of UASU’s largest chapter, a group that has historically produced key national union figures and has played a pivotal role in negotiations with the government concerning lecturers’ salaries, working conditions, and university governance.
The results of today’s election will shape the direction of this influence at a crucial juncture, as the incoming leadership will initiate negotiations for the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement and address the payment of over Sh7.9 billion in arrears stemming from the 2017–2021 agreement.
These negotiations follow a truce established last year, which successfully averted a nationwide strike by lecturers after a 49-day standoff.
In addition to salary negotiations, the newly elected officials will oversee the union’s involvement in governance matters, which have recently involved the UoN chapter alongside university management and council.
The election has primarily centered on the current executive, with chapter chairperson Richard Bosire recognized for his leadership during a time of heightened union activity.
Other influential figures from the outgoing team, including vice chairperson Fred Atoh and secretary Maloba Wekesa, also play a critical role in shaping today’s outcome, whether as candidates or supporters.
Their tenure has elevated the chapter’s profile, setting high expectations among members regarding the type of leadership needed for the next phase.
Beyond the individual candidates, today’s election will reveal whether lecturers favor continuity with the current leadership or opt for a new team.
Union elections at UoN typically reflect consensus-building at the faculty and departmental levels, drawing from a relatively small yet engaged electorate.
The implications of the outcome extend beyond the campus, as the elected officials will represent lecturers in negotiations and may significantly influence the union’s interactions with university management and the state, particularly at a time when public universities are grappling with financial challenges.
