Teachers object to Kuppet constitutional amendments, cite lack of consultations
The teachers claim that the proposed changes were introduced without sufficient consultation with the union's members.
A group of teachers has raised objections to the proposed amendments to the constitution of the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet), citing concerns about a lack of transparency and the potential for undemocratic practices.
Led by Vivian Chepkemoi Towett, the teachers have filed a petition with the Registrar of Trade Unions, challenging the amendments published in the Kenya Gazette Notice No. 1403 dated February 6, 2025.
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The teachers claim that the proposed changes were introduced without sufficient consultation with the union's members.
One of the most contentious changes is the proposed shift in the union's motto from "Integrity" to "Solidarity," which critics argue fundamentally alters the union's core principles.
Other significant changes include an increase in the nomination fees for leadership positions, the expansion of the National Executive Board (NEB), and the creation of new regional councils.
"The sharp increase in nomination fees locks out many qualified candidates from contesting leadership positions," she said
Towett said that the changes would make it more difficult for grassroots candidates to vie for leadership.
She also argued that the amendments violate the union's own constitution, which mandates that proposed changes be shared with the branches for discussion before being formally adopted.
Under the proposed amendments, the nomination fees for national leadership positions would be raised to Sh500,000, while fees for other positions, such as branch Executive Secretary, would rise to Sh300,000.
The current fees for these roles stand at Sh250,000 for national seats, Sh50,000 for branch Executive Secretary, and Sh10,000 for other branch offices.
The union has stated that these adjustments aim to standardise nomination fees and reflect changes in the nomination process.
However, Towett and other concerned teachers argue that these increases would create financial barriers for potential candidates, especially those from grassroots backgrounds.
"This exclusionary effect could reduce democratic participation and limit representation to wealthier individuals, undermining the Union's commitment to fairness and inclusivity," she said.
The teachers also pointed out that the sharp rise in fees could contravene Article 27 of Kenya's Constitution, which protects against discrimination based on economic status.
In addition to the increased fees, the proposal to establish new regional councils has raised concerns about the potential for power struggles between the national leadership and branch officials.
The proposed expansion of the NEB could also strain the union's resources, critics warn. Towett argued that these changes could complicate decision-making processes and weaken the union's ability to advocate for teachers' rights effectively.
"We reject the amendments fully. It is sad because they haven't had any meetings to discuss teachers' grievances like poor medical cover, stagnation in job groups, or anything to do with improving teachers' welfare," Towett said, representing teachers from the Nakuru and Kajiado branches.
The petitioners have called for an urgent meeting to discuss the proposed changes, with the aim of ensuring that all teachers are properly consulted before any amendments are adopted. They are seeking the suspension of the amendments until proper consultations are conducted.
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