Student journalism club elect new management

By 

Manyuira (wilsonmanyuira@yahoo.com) 

Kenyatta University Student Journalism Club(KUSJC) held its election on 16-3-2011 amid fears of postponement due to logistical problems.The new management board executive committee comprises of Ms Zipporah Muli- Chairperson, Mr. John Muiruri- Vice Chair, Ms. Murugi- secretary General, Mr. Kairu- Ombudsman(legal officer), Mr. Manyuira- Chief editor, Mr. Obondo- Treasurer and Mr. Nyakango as the organizing secretary. The executive board shall appoint a management team of 7 members later on.

The office of the chairperson previously held by MR. James Chege was declared vacant two weeks after expiry of his term. Other post that were declared vacant include that of vice chairperson previously held by Romeo Castro(A.K.A), treasurer(Jamal Dakano), chief editor(Ovin Nyakango), Organizing Secretary(Patience Kangethe) , secretary general(Ms. Zipporah Muli) and that of Ombudsman, previously held by Mr. Patrick Kariuki.

The constitution of KUSJC was strictly adhered to in vetting those interested in the posts but all members agreed unanimously of the need to observe lenience as a last resort after it emerged that not all interested members had sent nomination letters. Ms Dorcas Kinyua who is also the outgoing gender and social welfare secretary of KUSA echoed the same sentiments, urging members on the importance of the constitution.

All said and done, the members finally cast their ballots with 2 aspirants battling for the post of secretary general. On the other hand 3 aspirants battled for the post of chief editor while the other posts had no sufficient candidates to warranty casting of ballots. On the post of Sec Gen ,Ms Murugi walked away with 89% of the votes while Mr. Kiptanui managed 11 % of the total votes. On the post of chief editor Mr. Nyalenda-21%, Mr. Manyuira- 53% and Ms. Sasha 26%.

Speaking after she was declared the winner, Ms  Murigi promised to engage every member in all her activities while the new chief editor promised to lead the club to a diversified journalism world. The other leaders were elected Unopposed but it was not clear whether they will serve on acting capacity.