In a bold move, the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has called on its members to persist with their ongoing strike, despite a recent court order temporarily suspending the industrial action. KUPPET’s Secretary General, Akelo Misori, addressed teachers on Wednesday, urging them to disregard any “distractions” and maintain their job boycott.
The strike, initiated by KUPPET members, was temporarily halted by the Labour Court, which issued a suspension order as the legal process unfolds. However, SG Misori’s statement reflects the union’s firm stance on the matter, emphasizing the importance of the issues at hand and the need for solidarity among teachers.
“We are advising our members to remain steadfast and continue with the strike. These distractions should not deter us from our cause,” Misori stated, rallying teachers to stay united in their pursuit of better working conditions and fair compensation.
The strike, which has disrupted learning in various secondary schools across the country, was sparked by unresolved grievances concerning salary increments, improved working conditions, and the implementation of collective bargaining agreements. KUPPET’s leadership has expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s response to these demands, leading to the escalation of the situation.
The court’s intervention has added a legal dimension to the dispute, but KUPPET remains resolute in its position. The union has signaled its intention to challenge the suspension order, arguing that the issues at the heart of the strike are too critical to be ignored.
As the standoff continues, the situation has placed the education sector in a state of uncertainty, with parents, students, and other stakeholders eagerly watching for further developments. The next steps by both the union and the government will likely shape the course of education in the coming weeks, as KUPPET and its members remain firm in their demands.
