A close source from K47 Digital News has exposed the hidden factors that led the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) to abruptly call off the much-anticipated strike by teachers. The sudden decision, which has caused widespread disappointment among teachers, was reportedly influenced by behind-the-scenes negotiations and online meetings that shaped the outcome of the union’s actions.
Secret Meetings and Voting Dynamics
According to the insider report, KUPPET’s decision was reached after a crucial online meeting involving all Executive Secretaries (ES) from various counties, held simultaneously with the ongoing talks with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). The source indicates that during the online meeting, the decision to call off the strike was put to a vote. Surprisingly, only 11 union representatives voted in favor of the strike continuing, while 3 abstained from the vote. The majority, however, voted for the strike to end, marking the end of what was expected to be a long struggle for better working conditions.
The controversial decision to halt the strike has left many teachers feeling betrayed. Teachers had been prepared for a prolonged standoff with TSC, believing that their union would remain committed to pushing for improved working conditions and addressing grievances such as low wages and heavy workloads. The sudden reversal by KUPPET leadership has raised questions about the transparency and accountability of the union’s decision-making process.
Fear of Public Backlash
Adding to the controversy, the report claims that KUPPET leaders intentionally avoided attending a scheduled media briefing at 2:30 PM on the day of the strike’s suspension. The leaders allegedly feared facing teachers’ backlash and potential public humiliation. As one source pointed out, “No strike can be called off without an NGC [National Governing Council] meeting! Teachers are not fools.”
This act of avoidance has further fueled the anger and frustration among the teaching fraternity, many of whom feel they were misled. Teachers have expressed disappointment in KUPPET’s handling of the situation, with some accusing the union leaders of abandoning their cause. One teacher remarked, “We have been betrayed!”
SG Defends Himself
Amidst the uproar, KUPPET’s Secretary General (SG) has promised to defend himself against allegations of betrayal. However, the damage seems to have already been done, with teachers now calling for accountability from their union leaders. According to the leaked information, the names of all ES who participated in the voting process will soon be revealed, along with how each one voted. This could potentially deepen divisions within the union and further erode the trust between teachers and their representatives.
The revelation has sparked a wave of outrage on social media, with teachers demanding answers and accountability. Many feel that their union leaders were not acting in their best interests, and the lack of transparency in the decision-making process has only intensified the sense of betrayal.
Conclusion
The abrupt decision by KUPPET to call off the teachers’ strike has left many questioning the integrity of the union’s leadership. With teachers feeling betrayed and disappointed, the situation highlights the challenges of ensuring accountability within labor unions. As the names of those who voted in favor of calling off the strike are revealed, KUPPET may face even more pressure from its members. For now, the future of the union’s relationship with its members remains uncertain.
