Why Knut and Kuppet are Engaged in a Fresh Big Fight
Why Knut and Kuppet are Engaged in a Fresh Big Fight. The education environment in Kenya is currently marred by a tumultuous dispute between the two main teachers’ unions, the Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) and the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Teachers (Kuppet). The clash stems from their conflicting positions on proposed changes to the Teachers’ Commission Act, signaling a concerted effort to regain credibility and authority in the eyes of their members.
In the background of this confrontation are unions dealing with the consequences of a non-cash collective agreement (CBA) signed two years ago, which has led to a decline in their standing among members. Proposed changes to the TSC Act have become a new battleground for the unions, with emotions running high during a public stakeholder meeting called by the TSC.
Knut, at the head of the resistance, declared his refusal to attend the meeting and criticized the proposed changes to the law as punitive for teachers. General Secretary Collins Oyuu expressed specific objections to the various clauses, highlighting concerns about potential adverse effects on teachers.
Kuppet, although he attended a separate advisory meeting, also expressed strong opposition to the proposed amendments, accusing the TSC of being overbearing and seeking excessive powers.
The statements by Oyuu and general secretary Kuppet Akello Misori bring to the surface long-standing tensions and power struggles between unions that appear to have endured years of suppression. This open defiance suggests a renewed battle for teacher membership between Knut and Kuppet, who aim to regain influence after a period of passive negotiations.
In their submissions, both unions outlined their objections to the proposed changes. Kuppet criticized the TSC for excluding them from salary control, highlighting the omission of Article 41 of the Constitution, which guarantees collective bargaining rights. Knut raised concerns about the TSC’s approach to disciplining teachers, particularly the absence of strict rules of evidence in line with constitutional principles.
Behind the scenes, a quieter battle is taking place as the two unions vie to regain their grip and reassure members of their strength. Accusations fly between the two unions, with Knut claiming that Kuppet is working with TSC and vice versa. The transfer of secondary school teachers (JSS) to Kuppet becomes a point of contention, with Knut expressing displeasure and accusing TSC of patronage.
As unions grapple with the proposed changes, the fight for representation is intensifying, echoing the historic rivalry dating back to 1998 when Kuppet was formed to balance the influential KNUT. The current skirmish underscores the significance of the membership wars that have plagued the union since 2012, with old strategies to woo members resurfacing amid this educational upheaval.