By Staff Reporter
The trade union has responded to the souring rivalry between the TSC and Knut following the discriminatory promotions and pay rise.
Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) yesterday wrote to Labour Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelugui, asking him to convene a meeting to discuss and perhaps advise on the way forward on the controversial promotions and salary increase by the Teachers Service Commission.
The meeting will bring together Cotu, TSC and the Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut), whose members were denied better pay this month.
In the letter, Cotu Secretary-General Francis Atwoli expressed his worry over the widening rift between Knut and TSC.
“Indeed, if left unaddressed, the situation is likely to degenerate into a serious threat to the country’s industrial peace,” said Mr Atwoli.
On the other hand, Knut asked TSC to promote and pay teachers as per 2017-2021 collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
Knut Secretary-General Wilson Sossion said attempting to abolish the Schemes of Service as the basis for promotion is an attempt to abolish recognition of new academic qualifications, which teachers attained after spending their resources and time on studies.
Speaking to the journalists, Sossion said the commission should not breach the Career Progression Guidelines, but should promote teachers using the Code of Regulations for Teachers.
On his side, Knut treasurer John Matiang’i said the fight between TSC and the union should not involve innocent teachers who are tirelessly toiling to ensure that learners get the best service.
According to Mr Sossion, the commission was given Sh54 billion to pay all teachers and increase their salaries, but has been masked by disappointing discrimination.
Mr Matiang’i called on President Uhuru Kenyatta to intervene and solve the issue as soon as possible.
