KNUT Boss Wilson Sossion Dismisses TSC Circular

Former nominated Member of parliament Wilson Sossion.
Former Nominated Member of Parliament, Wilson Sossion
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Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) Secretary-General Wilson Sossion has dismissed a letter by the Teacher's Service Commission (TSC) warning teachers against engaging in politics. 

TSC sent a circular noting that any employee who currently holds a political office or engages in politics is doing so in violation of the law and is liable to disciplinary action.

The circular was issued to TSC Headquarters Directors, Regional Directors, County and Sub-county Directors, Principals of Colleges and high schools, headteachers and commission employees.

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Teachers Service Commission CEO Nancy Macharia addresses the media in January 2020 in Nairobi
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“In congruence with the spirit of national values and good governance under the Constitution which includes impartiality and political neutrality, it is vital for all employees of the commission, to adhere to strict observance of the law in respect by abstaining from taking part in political engagements,” said Macharia.

According to Nancy, all TSC employees should not show support to or oppose any political party in any election.

However, KNUT Secretary-General, William Sossion expressed his opposition to the circular, saying that it was uncalled for, frightening and total abuse of the law. 

Sossion put emphasis on how the circular was inappropriate, especially at this time when Kenyans are dealing with the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI).

“Calling on teachers to abstain from taking part in political engagements and accordingly, shun national political activities amounts to gross violation of the fundamental rights of teachers,” said Sossion.

In October 2020, EACC CEO Twalib Mbarak ordered all appointed government officials and public servants, including teachers, to avoid political activities or face prosecution.

Mbarak had noted that some public servants had become involved in political activities to an extent of taking up political positions.

A signpost showing Teachers Service Commission mandated with hiring teachers in Kenya.
A signpost showing the Teachers Service Commission office. TSC is mandated with hiring teachers in Kenya
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