Kuppet Justifies Constitutional Amendments Amid Opposition.
The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) has defended its recently amended Constitution, stating that the changes resulted from thorough consultations and democratic processes.
The amendments, however, have triggered internal disputes, with members contesting the removal of the age limit for national office holders and an increase in nomination fees. Some members argued that these changes were introduced without adequate consultation, prompting legal challenges.
Despite these efforts, the Registrar of Trade Unions rejected the proposed amendments, citing both procedural and substantive concerns, further exacerbating divisions within the union.
Following a National Executive Board meeting, Acting Secretary-General Moses Nthurima clarified that the amendments aimed to enhance representation, embrace diversity, and align the union with its members’ evolving needs. He stated that the changes would ensure better inclusion of women, youth, and teachers with disabilities.
Acknowledging opposition within the union, he asserted that the amendments followed a lawful and democratic process, culminating in approval by the Registrar’s Plenary Meeting. He explained that consultations were held at multiple levels, starting with teachers, followed by leadership engagement, and concluding with the Annual Delegates Conference (ADC), where the final vote took place.
Retirement Age and Career Considerations
Addressing concerns about the retirement age, Nthurima reaffirmed that the mandatory retirement age for union officials remains 65 years. He explained that the wording flexibility in the new Constitution was designed to accommodate union leaders dismissed from teaching positions due to their union duties. He stressed that the provision prevents these officials from jeopardizing their careers while continuing to serve the union.
He clarified that the retirement age is not indefinite, contrary to some reports, and added that many officials face job losses or missed promotions due to their union involvement. By extending their service period, the union ensures that affected officials can continue contributing and securing opportunities. He urged members to focus on more pressing issues rather than misinterpreting the retirement clause.
Inclusion of Junior Secondary School Teachers
On the issue of Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers, Nthurima reiterated that their membership in Kuppet is justified by their classification as post-primary teachers. He pointed out that Kenya’s Constitution categorizes schools into three levels: pre-primary, primary, and secondary. Since JSS falls under secondary education, its teachers naturally belong to Kuppet, regardless of whether they are stationed in primary or secondary schools.
Dismissing allegations that JSS teachers were coerced into joining the union, he clarified that their inclusion was automatic and legally valid, ensuring proper representation of post-primary teachers.
Structural Changes in the New Constitution
The revised Constitution introduces significant structural changes to the union’s leadership and representation framework. The executive positions have been expanded from 10 to 14, incorporating roles such as Assistant National Secretary Gender to represent young teachers and those from marginalised areas. A new position dedicated to Junior Secondary School representatives was also created to address concerns arising from the curriculum changes.
To improve regional representation, the new amendments establish Regional Councils, ensuring better geographical inclusivity. Additionally, the number of Trustees has been increased from four to nine to enhance oversight of union assets. A pro-rata delegate system has been introduced to prevent branch underrepresentation, ensuring fair distribution of voting rights.
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Four new leadership positions at the national level have been introduced, with three reserved for women and one for Junior Secondary School representation. This structure guarantees that young teachers have a voice in the union’s leadership.
Improved Delegate Representation
To address historical disparities in delegate distribution, the revised system allocates 14 delegates per branch. Larger branches will receive an additional delegate for every 100 members beyond the initial 300, ensuring proportional representation. Previously, smaller branches with as few as 300 members had the same number of delegates as larger branches with up to 6,000 members.
Nthurima affirmed that the new Constitution adheres to the two-thirds gender rule and guarantees representation for persons with disabilities, fostering inclusivity in leadership and decision-making processes.
Kuppet Justifies Constitutional Amendments Amid Opposition.
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