The County Government Workers Union (Kenya) conducted its Kiambu County Branch elections in a peaceful, transparent and orderly process, marking a significant democratic milestone for unionised county employees.
The elections, held at Furaha Church Hall in Kiambu town, attracted a strong turnout of registered members who exercised their constitutional right to choose their branch leadership in accordance with the Labour Relations Act, 2007, and Article 41 of the Constitution of Kenya.
Security arrangements were in place, and the process was overseen by the Union’s Election Board, which confirmed that all electoral rules and procedures were strictly adhered to.
Several positions were contested, while others were filled unopposed.
After the tallying of votes, the following officials were declared duly elected to serve the Kiambu County Branch of the County Government Workers Union:
- Branch Chairperson: Tom Eddy Kang’ethe (unopposed)
- Branch Vice Chairperson: John Mureithi Maina
- Branch Secretary: Moses Kamau Ndungu (unopposed)
- Deputy Branch Secretary: Angeline Wacere Wambui
- Branch Treasurer: Monicah Njeri Thuita
- Assistant Treasurer: Mary Wanjiru Watrimu (unopposed)
- Branch Women Representative: Faith Wanjiku Thura
- Assistant Branch Women Representative: Victoria Nyambura Kiarie
- Branch Youth Representative: Edwin Meria Kimani
The union leadership noted that the elections reflected the will of the workers, with members freely choosing leaders they believe will effectively champion their welfare, rights and interests.
Speaking to the media after being elected Branch Chairperson, Tom Eddy Kang’ethe, who also serves as the National Treasurer of the Union, described the exercise as a strong affirmation of internal democracy within the union.
“Today we were practising democracy as the Kiambu County Branch, and it was a very successful process with a good turnout.
Members chose leaders they believe will be at the forefront of fighting for labour justice,” Kang’ethe said.
He highlighted long-standing challenges facing county workers, including alleged labour malpractices, delayed promotions and the continued engagement of more than 2,000 workers on long-term casual terms, which he said contravenes labour laws.
“These are workers who have served the county for years as casuals. It beats logic that one day you wake up and send them away. Negotiations with the county government are ongoing, and reconciliation efforts are expected to be concluded this month,” he added.
Kang’ethe further stated that while the union prefers dialogue, it remains firm in defending workers’ rights.
“We don’t want problems, but if problems come, we are ready. We are here, and you will hear us,” he said.
The County Government Workers Union (K) is affiliated to the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU-K) and Public Services International (PSI). The newly elected Kiambu branch officials are expected to assume office immediately and steer the union’s agenda for the next term, with a focus on job security, fair labour practices and improved working conditions for county government employees.
