Akello Misori Asks Teachers to Forgive Him for Ending Strike

Akello Misori Asks Teachers to Forgive Him for Ending Strike

Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Secretary General Akelo Misori has addressed the backlash following the abrupt cancellation of the teachers’ strike on Monday. The announcement sparked outrage among many educators, who accused Misori of betraying their collective efforts.

Despite mounting pressure to step down, Misori insists the decision was a collective one made by the union’s executive board, not his alone.

The strike, which had widespread support, was halted after the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) agreed to certain demands. However, some KUPPET leaders and teachers felt betrayed, arguing the union had prematurely abandoned the strike.

Migori County’s KUPPET Secretary General, Samuel Orwa, voiced the frustration of many, calling it “an affront to the collective resolve of teachers.” Similarly, Miffat Okisai, the Secretary General for the Busia branch, distanced himself from the decision, criticizing the lack of proper procedure in ending the strike.

Misori responded by labelling his critics as hypocritical, explaining that the decision followed thorough consultations and was authorized by the National Governing Council (NGC). He emphasized that he was simply executing the mandate given to the executive board by the NGC, and that the same critics had supported the negotiations with TSC.

This internal division within KUPPET underscores the difficulties in managing union actions on a national scale. Misori expressed surprise at the criticism, noting that those who had granted authority to the board were now accusing it of overstepping.

While Misori reassured teachers that the union would continue fighting for their demands, many felt the strike was ended too soon and that key issues remained unresolved. The national executive board (NEB) has faced particular criticism, with calls for its dissolution due to its role in halting the strike.

According to KUPPET’s constitution, only the NGC has the power to end a strike. Critics argue that the NEB exceeded its authority by acting unilaterally, especially after a virtual meeting to review the strike’s status was never held.

The rift in KUPPET’s leadership deepened when Edward Obwocha, secretary for secondary schools, walked out of the TSC meeting in protest, reflecting the growing discord within the union.

As the situation unfolds, KUPPET faces the challenge of resolving internal conflicts, with some members pushing for a return to the strike and others advocating caution. Despite calls for his resignation, Misori remains firm, insisting the executive board acted within its mandate and denying any betrayal of the teachers.

For now, KUPPET remains divided, and the future of its leadership remains uncertain.

Akello Misori Asks Teachers to Forgive Him for Ending Strike