Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Secretary General Akelo Misori has come under fire from a section of the union’s executive members who accuse him of betrayal over the decision to call off a planned teachers’ strike. In response, Misori has defended the decision, emphasizing that it was not made unilaterally but was the collective resolution of the union’s executive council.
Misori, addressing the accusations, expressed disappointment at the backlash from certain members of the executive, labeling them as hypocritical. He underscored that the decision to halt the strike was made after thorough consultations within the union and was in line with the mandate given by the National Governing Council (NGC) members, who had empowered the executive board to negotiate with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) on their behalf.
“The mandate we executed was not the mandate of Akelo, Akelo speaks on behalf of the executive board,” Misori stated, seeking to clarify that the authority to negotiate and sign a return-to-work formula was a decision endorsed by the union’s top decision-making body.
Misori’s Defense of Executive Decisions
Misori explained that during their last meeting, the county executive members, who are part of the NGC, explicitly granted the executive board the authority to engage with the TSC. The mandate allowed the board to negotiate terms and reach an agreement that would address the grievances that initially led to the strike threat. Following these discussions, the TSC agreed to meet several of the union’s demands, prompting the executive to call off the strike.
“It is surprising that some of the members who gave us the authority to negotiate with TSC are now the ones faulting the board’s decision,” Misori said, pointing out the inconsistency in the stance of some of the union members.
Union’s Efforts and Progress
Misori further elaborated on the union’s progress in negotiations, highlighting that the leadership managed to secure significant concessions from the TSC. Although he did not specify all the details of the agreement, he assured the members that the union is committed to continuing the fight for teachers’ rights and working conditions until all their demands are fully met.
“The union leadership has made strides in reaching agreements on several key issues that were of concern to our members,” Misori stated. He appealed to teachers not to lose hope, promising that KUPPET would remain steadfast in pursuing their collective interests.
Misori also emphasized the importance of unity within the union, cautioning that public disagreements could undermine the union’s bargaining power. He called on all members, particularly those in leadership positions, to stand together and support the decisions made collectively to achieve the best outcomes for the teaching fraternity.
Calls for Unity and Collective Action
Misori’s defense comes at a crucial time when internal divisions could weaken the union’s resolve and effectiveness. He reiterated the importance of unity and solidarity among union members, especially during negotiations with the TSC, a body that holds significant power over teachers’ working conditions and terms of service.
“We must remain united and focused on our goals. Internal squabbles will only serve to weaken our position and give our adversaries the upper hand,” Misori urged. He called on the critics within KUPPET to channel their energy into supporting the union’s agenda rather than sowing discord.
As KUPPET navigates these internal challenges, Misori’s leadership is likely to remain under scrutiny. However, his appeal for solidarity and commitment to the union’s cause serves as a reminder of the collective nature of union struggles. Whether this will suffice to quell the dissent remains to be seen, but Misori’s message is clear: the union’s strength lies in its unity and its members’ resolve to fight for their rights together.
