COTU backs teachers’ strike

COTU backs teachers’ strike Written By:KBC reporter,    Posted: Mon, Aug 20, 2012

COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli has backed the teachers' strike set for September 3rd when schools reopen for third and final term. The Central Organization of Trade Unions has appealed to the government to take swift action in order to avert an impending teachers strike. COTU Secretary General, Francis Atwoli says should teachers make good their strike threat, learning will be severely disrupted at a critical time that candidates are preparing for their final examinations.   The Kenya National Union of Teachers on Sunday  issued a new strike notice threatening to disrupt learning in all public schools if the government fails to resolve the ongoing salary impasse. Atwoli pointed out that the purpose of the notice is to engage the teachers in order to avoid a confrontation. KNUT Secretary General Mr David Osiany called on their members countrywide to proceed with the industrial action on Monday September 3 when schools reopen for third and final term of the year. The union is demanding 300 per cent salary increment, immediate implementation of Legal Notice 534 of 1997 with regard to teachers' allowances and responsibility allowances at 50 per cent for school principals and heads, 40 per cent for the deputies and 30 per cent both for senior teachers and Heads of Departments. Meanwhile, Atwoli who is a member of the national health insurer (NHIF) interim board has made it clear that he does not condone corruption adding that he would resign if the insurer is found to be involved in any corrupt dealings. Atwoli made the remarks at a workshop for HIV/AIDS focal persons in Africa trade unions. He commended the political elite for the steps they have taken to combat the HIV/ADS pandemic.