By Our Reporter
Principals from Kisii County are seeking protection from security agencies over wanton attacks from a section of political leaders who allegedly intimidate them over misplaced allegations of poor performance.
Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association Kisii County Chairman Jairus Onchoke expressed fears that school heads were working under intense threat from some politicians who incite the public against the principals whenever there are personal misunderstandings.
“We want to give support to our politicians in the county, we appreciate very much the bursary support they give our students including the infrastructure support that has seen us offer better services, however we are worried about the attitude of some leaders on principals most of which borders on personal vendetta,” he said. The Chairman added: “We condemn in strongest terms possible the continued harassment of our principals and call for respect”.
He was particularly concerned with the conduct of a certain legislator who has a tendency of blaming school heads in his constituency without showing respect whenever he is displeased with certain things.
“Principals ought to be heard whenever there are discontentment before being condemned, the County Education Board should prevail on the MP and all other leaders threatening us,” Onchoke advised.
He said it is unfortunate that they have never called the principals for honest engagements to discuss the pertinent issues of concern and instead have perfected the art of condemning heads in public barazas.
He made the remarks during the County’s 6th KESSHA conference held at Lions High School in Kisumu town where he also appealed to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the Ministry of Education to go slow on the matters raised by politicians on principals and follow the due processes.
During the function Obenge Philemon Ogolla got the Principal of the Year Award (POYA) Kisii County.
Kisii County KUPPET Executive Secretary Omari Otungu Albert who graced the conference faulted the TSC and the Ministry for issuing too many guidelines that are not well thought out and hence observed that they should be withdrawn.
