KUPPET Delegates Clash Over Retirement Age Proposal.
The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Annual Delegates’ Conference, held at Aiga Hotel, turned chaotic after members strongly opposed a proposal to raise the retirement age for senior leaders.
The dissenting members accused the leadership of unilaterally increasing the retirement age from 60 to 65 years, which they argued violated the union’s constitution. The situation escalated as teachers expressed their disapproval of the move, leading to a disruption of the conference proceedings.
The opposing members voiced their concerns, stating that the leadership had gone against the union’s constitution by making changes to the retirement age without proper consultation.
One teacher passionately declared, “We cannot mute the union’s constitution and follow the interests of some few individuals. We are here saying there should be no extension of retirement age.”
This view was supported by many others, who believed that the lack of proper amendments, as mandated by the National Governing Council, rendered the proposal invalid.
The discontent among members intensified as they argued that such decisions should be made through proper channels, ensuring transparency and adherence to the union’s rules.
Secretary General Defends the Proposed Amendments
In response to the allegations, Secretary General Akelo Missori defended the decision, asserting that the union’s constitution allows for amendments, including changes to the retirement age for its leaders.
He explained, “The issue of age is a non-issue in the Labour Relations Act. A union official is someone serving in the trade or has previously served in other union leadership activities.”
His explanation, however, did little to quell the growing unrest among the members, who remained adamant that the changes should not have been made without consultation.
Threat of Teacher Strikes Looms Over Unpaid Insurance Cover
Beyond the controversy surrounding leadership, the conference also touched on critical financial matters affecting teachers. The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has threatened to strike in January if the National Treasury fails to release KSh 10 billion meant for teachers’ insurance cover.
This money, deducted from teachers’ pay, is crucial for their insurance cover, which is negotiated between the employer and the unions.
Teachers have expressed deep concern, with one union representative stating, “This money is very sensitive, and it must be taken very seriously. If it is not remitted by January, then the teachers will take to the streets.”
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The unresolved issues at the KUPPET Annual Delegates’ Conference highlight the growing tensions within the teaching community, with both leadership disputes and financial concerns threatening to disrupt the education sector in Kenya.
The unions’ response to these challenges remains uncertain, but the stakes are high as teachers demand greater accountability and transparency from their leaders.
KUPPET Delegates Clash Over Retirement Age Proposal.
