Former Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Secretary General Wilson Sossion has called on the union to remain steadfast in defending the rights of teachers.
Sossion warned that the union continues to operate under what he described as a hostile environment.
Speaking during a teachers’ forum in Bomet town, Sossion claimed that the government has persistently tried to weaken KNUT, unlike its treatment of other trade unions.
“KNUT is under constant attacks from the state, which is determined to neutralise its voice completely. The union must stay vigilant and firm in its mission,” said Sossion.
Reflecting on his tenure, Sossion stated that his removal as Secretary General and subsequent arrest in 2013 were the result of his unwavering stand for teachers’ welfare.
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“I paid the price for defending teachers — a price I would pay again. But I am proud that today, teachers are better remunerated because of those efforts,” he added.
However, he criticised the current KNUT leadership, accusing them of aligning with the government and neglecting teachers’ pressing concerns.
“The union cannot afford to be complacent. Some of the current officials are too cosy with the government, and in the process, teachers’ issues have taken a back seat,” he said.
Despite his criticisms, Sossion lauded the President for availing funds for CBA, adding that he values teachers as enshrined in the Kenya Kwanza Education charter.
“We must support the government where progress is being made, but that should not come at the cost of our independence as a union,” he emphasised.
KNUT Bomet Branch Secretary Desmond Langat, who also spoke at the event, praised Sossion’s leadership and reaffirmed the union’s commitment to advocating for teachers.
“Sossion’s legacy speaks for itself. We will carry on the struggle to ensure the rights and welfare of teachers are safeguarded at all times,” said Langat.
By Kimutai Langat
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