GFT candidates protest union management

by Mindy Aguon

Guam - A protest letter from two of the three candidates running for president of the Guam Federation of Teachers claims the current leadership of the union continues to violate the GFT constitution. With voting scheduled to start next week, they claim there's been no meetings to brief the candidates, stewards or anyone else who will be conducting elections at any site.

The protest goes on to allege that incumbent candidates are using the GFT's "Working Family" television program to promote their accomplishments. "By federal regulations you are not allowed to use any union money for elections. This crossed the line," noted Carol Somerfleck, one of the candidates. "I feel that it's pretty obvious that you have incumbents on and it's during campaign season."

Voting for the GFT election starts next week.

Meanwhile, several of the candidates who are running for leadership positions in the GFT will be at the Guam Premiere Outlet tomorrow in Tamuning from 10am to 4 in the afternoon outside Ross to campaign. Along with Somerfleck, they are James Nichols, Jennifer Berry and Cris Manglona.

• Read the protest letter