DWU Election Board Assures Free, Fair Elections Despite Funding Standoff

The Dock Workers Union (DWU) Election Board has assured aspirants that preparations for the union’s August 13 elections remain on course despite financial challenges that have slowed key procurement processes.

Speaking during a verification exercise attended by candidates, Election Board Chairperson Renson Thoya said the board is committed to conducting a free, fair and credible election while maintaining transparency throughout the process.

Thoya said the board will keep aspirants informed at every stage of the electoral process and publicly display election materials once they are received.

“We want every step we make to be transparent. When we receive the original ballot papers and other election materials, we will show them to you,” he said.

He, however, expressed concern over delays in releasing funds, saying ongoing wrangles within the union have affected election preparations.

The board requires funding to print ballot papers, procure ballot boxes and meet other logistical costs before polling day.

“We have reached a stage where we need money. We need ballot papers and ballot boxes. We have already written to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission in Nairobi, but we require funds to complete this exercise,” he said.

He appealed to the National Executive Committee to urgently release the resources needed to ensure preparations remain on schedule.

Board warns against illegal campaigns

The Election Board also warned Kenya Ports Authority employees who have not been nominated or cleared to contest the elections against engaging in campaigns within the Port of Mombasa.

Thoya urged the Kenya Ports Authority management to uphold the rule of law by ensuring only approved candidates participate in campaign activities.

“If someone has not picked nomination forms or has not been cleared, they should stay away from this exercise,” he said.

He also urged union members to channel election-related complaints to the Election Board instead of social media.

Thoya said only registered Dock Workers Union members whose payslips confirm active union subscriptions will be eligible to vote.

According to the board, the voters’ register will be published once payroll records are received, allowing members to verify their details before polling day.

The August 13 election will be conducted across polling stations in Mombasa, Nairobi, Lamu, Naivasha and Kisumu.

He said the board is taking every precaution to ensure no eligible member is denied an opportunity to participate in the election.

Secretary General candidates call for issue-based campaigns

Candidates contesting the Secretary General position appealed to members to maintain peaceful campaigns and vote based on policies rather than propaganda.

Abubakar Mohamed Abdalla urged members to elect leaders who understand the challenges facing dock workers.

“I ask workers to choose a leader who knows the work and can improve their lives. Politics should be about policies that deliver results, not propaganda or chaos,” he said.

He also called on fellow candidates to conduct campaigns that promote unity within the union.

Fellow candidate Salim Kumaka urged members to make informed decisions during the election.

“I ask those who will vote to make wise decisions because the choice you make today will determine your future tomorrow,” he said.

The verification exercise forms part of the Election Board’s preparations ahead of the Dock Workers Union elections scheduled for August 13.