A section of the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) has continued to press the Secretary General, Seth Panyako, to resign amid an ongoing court case that suspended the February 6, 2026, elections.
Speaking in Uasin Gishu County on Thursday, February 12, 2026, the union members claim the secretary general has failed to represent the interests of nurses and midwives in the country during his tenure, and his removal is long overdue.
“We’ve come here today to explain to the country why we decided to challenge the legality of the KNUN constitution in court. This action was taken by our responsibility to protect democracy, fairness and accountability within our union,” Simon Kibii, a KNUN member, stated.
The Employment and Labour Relations Court in Eldoret issued an injunction halting elections scheduled for February 6, 2026, following a petition by disgruntled union members.
The petitioners have challenged the legality of the current constitution, which they describe as discriminatory and designed to entrench the leadership of the current secretary general.
“Certain provisions in the constitution are crafted in a way that concentrates power in one office, weakens checks and balances and undermines internal democracy,” added Kibii.
According to James Murimi, a union member, the current constitution was not ratified by all members; therefore, it cannot be used to conduct a credible election.
Further, his sentiments were echoed by former KNUN national chairperson John Bii, who blamed Panyako for allegedly undermining the union while prioritising his political ambitions at the expense of members.
“We have three CBAs that have failed to be implemented under the leadership of Seth Panyako. I call upon all union members to join us in making sure we send him back home in Kaburengu,” said Bii.
The members denied allegations that they were being used by the government to fight Panyako, who has emerged as a fierce critic of President William Ruto’s administration after his loss during the Malava constituency by-elections last year.
