Migori County teachers under the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) are up in arms after July payslips revealed shockingly low salary increments and unexplained deductions labeled “SwaL:KUPPET-Union.”
The union’s Migori branch has written an urgent letter demanding answers from the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), citing a breach of the 2025-2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that promised significant salary hikes.
Shockingly Low Increments: C1 Teachers Get Only KSh 996!
According to KUPPET Migori Executive Secretary Oruva Jasolo, the salary adjustments are far below expectations. Payslips reviewed by the union show:
- Job Group C1: KSh 996 increase
- Job Group C2: KSh 600 increase
- Job Group C3: KSh 289 increase
- Job Group C4: KSh 143 increase
“The increments get even smaller as you move up the job groups,” Jasolo noted, expressing disbelief among members who expected meaningful raises under the new CBA.
Mysterious New Deduction: What is “SwaL:KUPPET-Union”?
Adding fuel to the fire, teachers discovered a new, unexplained deduction labeled “SwaL:KUPPET-Union” in their July payslips. The union is now demanding:
- Full disclosure on the purpose of this deduction.
- Clarification on whether it’s a double deduction, as some teachers suspect.
- Immediate corrective measures if the deduction is unauthorized.
KUPPET’s Demands: TSC Must Explain CBA Implementation
In the letter addressed to TSC, KUPPET Migori is seeking:
✅ The implementation matrix used to calculate the CBA phases.
✅ A breakdown of how the increments were determined.
✅ Official communication on the SwaL deduction—its legality and necessity.
“Our members are agitated. They signed up for better pay, not unexplained cuts,” Jasolo stated.
Teachers React: “This is Betrayal!”
Several educators who spoke anonymously expressed frustration:
- “After years of waiting, we get peanuts? This is an insult!” – C2 Teacher
- “First, the increment is a joke. Now, they’re deducting money without explanation?” – C3 Teacher
- “If this is how TSC honors agreements, then we’re in trouble.” – Senior Master
Double Trouble: Are Unions Overcharging Teachers?
Sources suggest the “SwaL” deduction could be linked to a second union fee, raising concerns over double deductions. KUPPET insists that if this is the case, TSC must refund affected teachers immediately.
What’s Next? KUPPET Threatens Action
If TSC fails to respond satisfactorily, KUPPET Migori warns of possible industrial action. The branch has already mobilized its officials, including:
- Otunga H (Chairman)
- Okatch G (Vice Chairman)
- Orwa S (Executive Secretary)
- Owino R (Assistant Executive Secretary)
Expert Analysis: Why the CBA Might Have Fallen Short
Education analysts speculate that budget constraints or miscommunication between TSC and the treasury could be behind the underwhelming increments. However, without official clarification, teachers remain in the dark.
TSC’s Silence: A Ticking Time Bomb?
As of now, TSC has not publicly responded to KUPPET’s demands. The longer the commission stays silent, the higher the risk of nationwide unrest among teachers.
Conclusion: Will Teachers Strike Again?
With tempers flaring and trust eroding, the ball is now in TSC’s court. If a clear explanation and corrective measures aren’t provided soon, Kenya could witness another wave of teacher protests.
“We will not accept this injustice. If TSC doesn’t act, we will,” a KUPPET official warned.
Stay Tuned for Updates
This story is developing. Follow us for the latest on KUPPET’s next move and TSC’s response.
What do you think? Should teachers demand immediate action? Share your thoughts in the comments!
