Over 5,000 members of the Dock Workers Union (DWU) participated in a key leadership election on Thursday, August 13, 2026, marking a significant step following months of legal disputes and management conflicts within the union.

The voting exercise commenced at 6 a.m. across nine designated centres, including locations at the Port of Mombasa, Nairobi Inland Container Depot, Port of Lamu, and the Kenya Ferry crossing. Polling is set to conclude at 6 p.m., after which votes will be tallied and consolidated.

Contested Positions and Candidates

  • General Secretary: Abubakar Abdullahi and Salim Kumaka
  • National Chairman: Gunda Kaneno and Hassan Shabura
  • National Vice Chairman: Abdalla Randani, Amini Musya, Moris Morangi Mayega, and Shafi Ali
  • Assistant General Secretary: Gideon Matiku and Rashid Mwagassare

Election Environment

Checks at multiple polling stations, including the Port of Mombasa Headquarters and Container Terminal One, confirmed that voting proceeded smoothly without disruptions. Renson Thoya, Chairman of the DWU Election Committee, reported a calm atmosphere and no major complaints. He emphasized ongoing communication with presiding officers and the involvement of candidates’ agents to address any emerging issues promptly.

"We have maintained seamless operations throughout the day, and any concerns raised are being resolved amicably with all stakeholders present," Thoya stated.

Stakeholder Support and Challenges

National Chairman candidate Gunda Kaneno acknowledged Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) management for facilitating the election by providing adequate space for voting. Christine Wambua, a KPA employee and General Secretary candidate, highlighted the challenges faced leading up to the vote but expressed optimism about the smooth progress.

"Despite the difficulties encountered, we have reached this important stage with God's help," Wambua remarked.

Background and Next Steps

This election follows a court ruling that allowed the union to proceed after a prolonged period of internal strife and legal wrangling over leadership control. Results are anticipated once all ballots from the nine centres are counted and verified.