- KNUT Sotik Branch has opposed the transfer of a teacher, describing the move as irregular and unprocedural.
- The union claims the transfer was effected without following established TSC administrative channels.
- KNUT is demanding transparency and a review of the decision to protect the rights of the affected teacher.
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Sotik Branch has strongly condemned what it describes as an irregular and unlawful transfer of a teacher in Sotik Sub-County, accusing senior Teachers Service Commission (TSC) officials of bypassing established procedures and subjecting the affected teacher to intimidation.
Speaking on the matter, KNUT Sotik Branch Executive Secretary John Korir alleged that the transfer was being pushed through under questionable circumstances, with claims that the directive originated from “above.”
Korir said such assertions should not be used to justify actions that violate TSC regulations and established administrative procedures.
According to Korir, the union became concerned after reports emerged that the affected classroom teacher had received direct communication from the regional TSC office ordering them to leave their current station immediately.
He argued that teacher transfers should be handled through the appropriate administrative channels, including county and sub-county education offices, rather than through direct calls that create fear and uncertainty among teachers.
“It is highly unusual and unprocedural for a classroom teacher to receive instructions from a TSC office demanding that they vacate a station as quickly as possible. Such actions raise serious questions about the motive behind the transfer and whether proper procedures are being followed,” Korir said.
Questions over transfer process
The union maintains that teacher transfers are guided by clear TSC policies and are often initiated through requests made by teachers themselves or through legitimate administrative needs.
Korir noted that no teacher should be compelled to move under pressure or threats, especially when they have already settled in a station and are effectively carrying out their duties.
KNUT further argued that the transfer appears to contradict the spirit of the revised delocalisation policy introduced after President William Ruto assumed office in 2022.
The policy sought to enable teachers to work closer to their home areas and families, addressing concerns that had arisen under the previous deployment system.
Korir said the affected teacher has already established themselves at the station and has been performing their duties satisfactorily.
He questioned the urgency of the transfer, particularly given reports that another teacher is expected to occupy the same position.
The union suspects there could be external interests influencing the decision and has called for transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding the transfer.
Korir claimed that the situation has created confusion because two teachers are now reportedly linked to the same position, with one being pressured to leave in the middle of the school term.
Concern over learning disruption
“We are particularly concerned that this transfer is being effected in the middle of the term. Such abrupt movements disrupt teaching and learning, interfere with school administration and negatively affect learners who have already adapted to the teacher’s instructional programmes,” said Korir.
He added that sudden relocations can also affect teachers’ families.
“It also affects the teacher’s own family, especially their children who may be studying in the same area. Forcing a teacher to relocate suddenly can disrupt their children’s education, social stability and overall welfare. Transfers should be undertaken in a humane, professional and well-planned manner that safeguards both the interests of learners and the welfare of teachers and their families,” he said.
KNUT seeks intervention
The matter has since attracted the attention of both the KNUT Sotik Branch and the national KNUT office led by First National Vice Chairman Malel Langat, who is currently pursuing the matter.
The union leadership is engaging relevant authorities in an effort to establish the facts and ensure that the rights of the affected teacher are protected.
KNUT has called on the TSC to investigate the matter thoroughly, uphold due process and safeguard teachers from what it terms arbitrary and unfair transfers.
The union insists that all teacher deployment decisions must be guided by fairness, transparency and adherence to established regulations.
When contacted for comment, Rift Valley Regional TSC Director Adow Mohammed Bardad declined to respond directly to the allegations and referred the journalist to the TSC communication department for an official response.
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The TSC had not issued a formal statement on the matter by the time of publication.
By Philip Koech
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