By John Ndegwa / BMA
Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has successfully concluded the Bandari Maritime Academy Students’ Association (BMASA) elections, ushering in a new team of student leaders following a peaceful, transparent and highly competitive exercise.
Brian Otieno emerged as the Chairperson-elect after securing 150 votes against his closest competitor, Nayyim Omar, who garnered 118 votes in a closely contested race. The announcement of the results sparked celebrations among Otieno’s supporters, who gathered within the Academy in jubilation.
In other positions, Prisca Adhiambo was elected unopposed as Vice Chairperson, while Newton Mwesigwa and Tom Simba also clinched the positions of Secretary General and Academic Secretary respectively without opposition.
For the Treasurer’s position, Ramadhan Rahisi secured a decisive victory with 161 votes against Fred Kahedu, who received 105 votes. Stella Sau was elected Sports and Welfare Representative after garnering 183 votes, defeating Shadrack Charo, who obtained 86 votes.
BMA Senior Deputy Director and Academy Registrar, Dr. Irene Mugo, commended the orderly conduct of the exercise, noting its significance in strengthening democratic values among students. She observed that the elections were timely, particularly as the country prepares for a general election period, adding that the process had provided an opportunity for students and cadets to gain practical civic education.
Dr. Mugo further highlighted the role played by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), whose officials provided civic education and technical support to ensure adherence to electoral standards.
BMA Election Coordination Committee Chairperson, Enock Okemwa, lauded the candidates and the student body for demonstrating maturity, discipline and commitment throughout the electoral process.
IEBC Mvita Constituency Senior Election Officer, Masha Sudi, noted that the exercise offered students a valuable platform to understand electoral procedures, transparency and accountability, describing it as a practical learning experience in democratic governance.
The successful conduct of the election’s underscores Bandari Maritime Academy’s commitment to nurturing leadership, integrity and active student participation. The newly elected BMASA team is expected to play a key role in representing student interests and enhancing campus life at the institution.
