The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) has reiterated that their strike is still in effect, despite a recent court order suspending it.
Kuppet Secretary-General Akello Misori warned that parents who send their children to school during the strike would be responsible for any consequences.
“Any parent who chooses to send their child to school is assuming responsibility for whatever may happen,” said Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) Secretary-General Akello Misori.
Misori noted that some schools are operating outside their normal schedules. He emphasized that while school principals are expected to manage these situations appropriately, parents should be aware of their responsibilities.
The High Court recently issued a suspension order for the strike, pending a case filed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
Kuppet has received these court orders and is seeking legal clarification from their lawyers.
Misori stated that until there is a clear interpretation of the court orders, the strike will continue.
He emphasized that any changes to the strike status would be communicated after a complete evaluation.
Criticism of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC)
Downranking of the Teaching Profession:
Misori criticized the TSC for undermining the teaching profession by informalizing teachers’ employment.
He accused the TSC of neglecting teachers’ concerns and failing to address their issues adequately.
The union highlighted that teachers have been stuck in the same job group for over 25 years, which Misori described as both immoral and a sign of the commission’s irresponsibility.
Misori pointed out that the TSC has not honored the 2017 CBA, which included the provision for every school to have a principal.
He criticized the TSC for leaving over 4,000 principals in acting positions without formal appointments and failing to provide agreed allowances.
Misori argued that the TSC’s approach to handling the strike with orders rather than dialogue has demoralized teachers.
He stressed that the unions are committed to voicing teachers’ concerns and not merely managing conflicts.
The strike by Kuppet continues despite a court order to suspend it. The union’s leader has warned parents of the risks of sending children to school during the strike and criticized the Teachers Service Commission for failing to address teachers’ issues and not adhering to previous agreements. The situation remains tense as the union seeks legal clarification and continues to advocate for teachers’ rights.