Leaders Appeal to Teachers’ Unions to Halt Strike Plans
West Pokot leaders have instructed teachers who have declared a strike on Monday to give new Education Secretary Julius Ogamba time to settle.
The leaders, led by former Governor John Lonyangapuo, stated that individuals who are aggrieved should engage in dialogue with the relevant authorities in order to find a long-term solution.
Lonyangapuo stated that there is always potential for revisions in every agreement, and teachers should open the floor to conversations rather than being dogmatic.
Sigor MP Peter Lochakapong chastised teachers’ union leaders, saying the demand for a strike was misguided.
The MP asked teachers to be sensitive and worried about the wellbeing of students who are scheduled to take final examinations this year, stating that they, too, will be affected if the strike continues.
Lochakapong said third term typically represents a very delicate time and learners need no disturbance since it is their main exam term.
Selfish and Insensitive
Having a strike at this time, according to Lochakapong is being selfish and insensitive.
Kapenguria MP Samuel Moroto accused Ministry of Education officials of “showing non-commitment in coming up clear to explain what was happening”.
He stated that teachers have the right to vent their issues, but no official has stepped up to clarify.
Kuppet and Knut have declared a statewide strike for all teachers, commencing August 26.
On Friday, President William Ruto authorized the National Treasury and the Ministry of Labour to meet with teachers in order to avoid a strike.
During an annual general meeting in West Pokot, teachers representatives urged the government to follow the court judgment and the collective bargaining agreement inked in 2023.
Kuppet deputy secretary general Moses Nthurima stated that the union will organize meetings in all 47 counties and urged teachers to oppose any agreement with the government. He stated such internship offers are illegal and should be avoided.
Bungoma Woman Representative Catherine Wambilianga stated that the government has been making false promises to teachers, and that the union will not accept any further pledges.
Failed Talks
The talks between the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and teachers’ unions ended in chaos when the unions rejected the employer’s offer.
Following the impasse, officials from the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) and the Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) said the strike, which was slated to begin on Monday next week, is still going on.
During the talks at the Kenya School of Government in Lower Kabete, the TSC offered to execute Phase II of the 2021-2025 collective bargaining agreement (CBA), but did not meet the unions’ other demands.
The TSC invited the unions to prevent the strike. However, the instructors claim that the CBA was already in place.
Leaders Appeal to Teachers’ Unions to Halt Strike Plans
