Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) members from Rift Valley have affirmed that they are ready for the teachers’ strike expected to begin next week on Monday.
Regional Coordinator, Francis Bundotich observed that the government has had enough time to address teachers’ needs but it had failed terribly.
Addressing teachers in Nandi County, he took issue with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), accusing it of ignoring the implementation of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
“All the teachers in Rift Valley from Kajiado to Turkana will not go to school. We are only waiting for the whistle and then everything will take its course,” he said.
Bundotich, who is the Koibatek branch Executive Secretary, stressed that they were entitled to a salary increase given the increased statutory deductions on their salaries and the harsh economic climate in the country.
Kericho branch Executive Secretary Ann Cheruiyot echoed the sentiments, stating that they have had numerous talks with TSC and they were done talking.
“What is happening? The government has money, it is only a matter of stopping wastage. Otherwise parents, get it from me, there is no school on Monday,” she said.
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“We have held several talks with the employer. Which other talks should we have? TSC and the Treasury do not want to listen. This government doesn’t want to listen. We are well prepared. It is now forward match. No looking back until our demands are met,” she added.
Desmond Langat and Mathias Langat, of Bomet and Sotik branches respectively, blamed the government over discrimination against teachers and appealed for compliance from teachers countrywide, saying that it is for their good.
By Kimutai Langat
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