KUPPET Affirms Teachers Strike Continuation After TSC’s Rejection
The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has confirmed that the ongoing strike will continue as initially planned. This announcement follows the Teachers Service Commission’s (TSC) refusal to comply with the union’s request to end the strike.
In a letter to KUPPET Secretary Akello Misori, the TSC reiterated that the union must end the work boycott, citing a Tuesday court order mandating the cessation of the strike.
The union disclosed that the TSC had initially reached out to discuss possible solutions to the ongoing industrial action. However, a letter from the union appeared in the media before the TSC could issue a formal response, leading to widespread speculation about the negotiations.
Mr. Misori said the union would not engage in negotiations out of fear. He emphasized that the TSC had reached out informally to gauge the union’s seriousness, prompting KUPPET to write a letter and request a meeting formally.
Misori accused the TSC of blackmailing the union, warning against undervaluing teachers and misinterpreting court orders.
Legal Protection and Strike Legitimacy
The union emphasized that the national constitution and the Labor Relations Act of 2007 provide legal protection for the strike, ensuring workers’ right to participate in union activities.
KUPPET affirmed that they had followed the legal process, ensuring the strike remains lawful and ongoing.
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KUPPET expressed disappointment over the TSC’s decision to take the matter to court instead of continuing negotiations. The union interpreted this move as an act of bad faith, aimed at punishing the union and safeguarding the interests of the commission’s allies.
Misori warned that if teachers’ concerns were ignored, they would still find ways to disrupt the educational process, making meaningful learning difficult.
Positive Outcomes from the Strike
Despite the ongoing conflict, the union acknowledged some positive outcomes from the strike, citing the pressure it exerted on the Ministry of Education, which committed to providing 18.7 billion shillings in funding.
Furthermore, the government confirmed the employment of 20,000 new teachers, an achievement Misori attributed directly to the strike.
Earlier, KUPPET had formally written to the TSC, seeking a resolution to the ongoing strike and advocating for a peaceful settlement between the two parties.
The letter, referenced as COUP/TSC/019/24 and addressed to Dr. Nancy Macharia, the TSC’s Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, emphasized KUPPET’s commitment to resolving the issues through dialogue rather than legal confrontations.
Union’s Proactive Approach
The union’s letter underscored its preference for dialogue and stakeholder engagement over adversarial methods, reassuring the TSC of its law-abiding stance and readiness to address the matters constructively.
KUPPET also requested a meeting with the TSC to discuss a “Return to Work Formula,” aiming to find a resolution that benefits all involved.
ALSO READ: TSC Commissioner Ask Teachers to Unite Beyond Regional Lines
This proactive approach reflects KUPPET’s commitment to minimizing disruption in the education sector while working collaboratively with the TSC toward a sustainable solution.
KUPPET Affirms Teachers Strike Continuation After TSC’s Rejection
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