Teachers’ union KUPPET has issued a stern warning to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) over unpaid dues, demanding an immediate halt to salary deductions. Here’s the full story.
KUPPET’s Explosive Stand Against TSC
The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has taken a hardline stance against the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), accusing it of violating a return-to-work agreement by deducting salaries for unremitted union dues.
In a strongly worded statement, KUPPET Secretary General Akelo Misori demanded that the TSC “stop the deductions forthwith” and honor the terms of the September 2024 agreement that ended the teachers’ strike.
But why is this happening now? And what does it mean for teachers across Kenya? Let’s break it down.
The Backstory: The 2024 Teachers’ Strike
Between August and October 2024, public school teachers went on strike, demanding better pay and working conditions. After weeks of protests and negotiations, KUPPET and the TSC signed a Return-to-Work Formula on September 5, 2024, which included key provisions:
- No victimization of striking teachers or union officials.
- Immediate remittance of all salary deductions to third parties (including union dues).
However, KUPPET now claims the TSC “reneged on these promises” by failing to collect and remit union dues for three months, plunging the union into a financial crisis.
KUPPET’s Explosive Accusations
In the statement, Misori did not hold back:
“The TSC has failed in its statutory obligations. We demand that these illegal deductions stop immediately so we can close this matter.”
The union argues that the TSC was supposed to deduct and remit dues immediately after the strike ended, but instead, the commission withheld funds, crippling KUPPET’s operations.
What’s at Stake?
- Teachers’ Salaries: Unauthorized deductions mean less take-home pay.
- Union Operations: KUPPET claims it faced a “cash crunch” due to unpaid dues.
- Legal Battle Ahead: If TSC refuses, this could escalate to court.
Why Teachers Are Furious
Many educators feel betrayed by the TSC’s actions. Here’s why:
✔ Broken Promises: The return-to-work deal was supposed to protect teachers, but deductions continued.
✔ Financial Strain: With rising living costs, every shilling counts—unexpected cuts hurt.
✔ Union Weakness: If KUPPET lacks funds, it can’t fight for teachers’ rights effectively.
A teacher who spoke anonymously said:
“We went on strike for better conditions, but now our own salaries are being cut. How does that make sense?”
TSC’s Silence – What Are They Hiding?
As of now, the TSC has not publicly responded to KUPPET’s demands. This silence raises questions:
- Is the TSC deliberately punishing the union?
- Are there hidden financial issues preventing remittance?
- Will this lead to another strike if unresolved?
Experts warn that if the standoff continues, another industrial action could be looming—something Kenya’s education system cannot afford after months of disruptions.
What Happens Next?
KUPPET has given the TSC an ultimatum: Stop deductions now or face consequences. Possible next steps include:
- Legal Action – KUPPET could sue for breach of contract.
- Public Protests – Teachers may return to the streets.
- Political Intervention – MPs might be forced to step in.
Final Verdict: Will TSC Back Down?
The ball is now in the TSC’s court. If it ignores KUPPET’s demands, Kenya could see:
🔥 More salary disputes
🔥 Renewed strikes
🔥 A total breakdown in union-TSC relations
For now, teachers are watching closely—hoping for a resolution but prepared for a fight.
Your Thoughts?
Do you think the TSC is unfairly targeting teachers? Should KUPPET take stronger action? Let us know in the comments!
