Consistency and continuity were the watchwords in Narok yesterday as delegates of the Kenya Union of Special Needs Education (KUSNET) endorsed their entire national leadership for another term. In a rare show of trade union unity, all 13 national officials were re-elected unopposed.

The elections, held at a tense but celebratory delegates conference, saw members from across the 47 counties rally behind the team led by Secretary General James Torome and Chairman Amos Mungai. The lack of challengers was interpreted not as apathy, but as a resounding vote of confidence in the union's recent performance.

"A Mandate to Deliver"

Returning Officer Rebecca Kosgei declared the results to cheers from the floor. "Members expressed confidence in the leadership's ability to continue advocating for their interests," she noted. "The re-election is a result of their outstanding work."

In his acceptance speech, a jubilant James Torome did not mince words about the task ahead. "We have fought for recognition, but the war is not won," he told the delegates.

The Agenda for the New Term:

• Better Allowances: Top of the list is the push for enhanced special needs allowances. Teachers in this sector face unique challenges and the union argues their compensation must reflect the intensity of their work.
• Infrastructure: Torome called on the government to invest heavily in special needs facilities, which remain woefully underfunded in many public schools. "We cannot teach effectively if our classrooms are not adapted for our learners," he urged.
• Capacity Building: The union pledged to focus on training, ensuring that its members are equipped with the latest skills to handle diverse learning needs.

A Unified Voice

In a labour landscape often marred by factional infighting and court battles, KUSNET's seamless election sets a positive precedent. With a fresh mandate and a united front, the officials now have the political capital to engage the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) head-on. For the special needs child in a remote classroom, this stability in leadership could translate into better advocacy and, ultimately, a better education.