Chuka University, Kenya - Campus politics have played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of some of Kenya's most prominent politicians, and Chuka University is no exception. The institution has witnessed numerous future leaders taking their first steps in politics while still students, emulating the success stories of renowned alumni.
As the 2024-2025 Chuka University Students Association (CUSA) elections approach, aspiring leaders have already begun to declare their intentions to follow in the footsteps of their illustrious predecessors.
Renowned figures like Siaya Governor James Orengo, Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o, Nairobi County Governor Johnson Sakaja, former Member of Parliament Kabando wa Kabando, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino all started their political journeys as student leaders, often in student organizations. Chuka University students are now looking to continue this tradition, with the full support of the university's administration, which has consistently provided a platform for students to showcase their leadership skills.
The 2024-2025 CUSA elections are rapidly approaching, following the annual schedule outlined in the CUSA constitution. The elections will see a minimum of 20 positions contested in various categories, including Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary General, Organizing Secretary, Director of Academic Affairs, Director of Students Welfare, eight Faculty Representatives, two Non-Residents Representatives (of opposite genders), two Residents Representatives (of opposite genders), and two Games Representatives (of opposite genders).
The university employs a delegate system for the seven most influential positions known as the G7, including the Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Directors of Academic Affairs and Students Welfare, Organizing Secretary, General Secretary, and Treasurer.
The G7 members are elected by the top three candidates from each faculty, along with the best loser chosen by the election commission.
While it might seem too early for aspirants to announce their candidature, some have already made their intentions known through various channels, including WhatsApp groups aimed at securing votes. Notable aspirants for specific faculty positions include Ben Geoffrey and Kimanzi Musyoka in the Faculty of Sciences, Engineering, and Technology (FSET), Felix Odhiambo in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FHSS), and "Rambo" for male non-residents, among others.
However, potential candidates for the G7 positions have chosen to keep their aspirations private, possibly due to the early stage of the election process and the potential for counterattacks by their opposition.
While Chuka University is committed to conducting free and fair elections in accordance with the CUSA constitution, it's essential to remember past election controversies. In previous elections, there were allegations of irregularities and illegalities, with the Action Alliance (TAA) party led by Adrian Oluoch claiming that their victory was "stolen" by the current CUSA office holders representing The United Alliance (TUA) party.
The TAA faction alleged irregularities in the G7 elections, FHSS, Faculty of Business Studies, and Female Non-Residents positions. Although TAA filed a petition challenging TUA's victory, the allegations were resolved, leading to an agreement that saw TUA ascend to power.
Chuka University students and the entire academic community are eagerly anticipating the upcoming elections, with a strong desire for a transparent and fair process. The administration has been urged to take measures to prevent a repeat of previous election disputes. As the saying goes, "United we stand, divided we fall," and Chuka University is hopeful that the elections will strengthen the institution's unity and identity.
The Writer, Ochieng Tonney is a Second Year Journalism Student at Chuka University.
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