Knut Demands Compensation for Fallen Teachers Amidst Banditry Attacks
The families of teachers who have lost their lives in banditry attacks nationwide are pressing the government for compensation. Collins Oyuu, Secretary-General of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut), highlighted that numerous teachers have been victimized in such incidents.
Oyuu announced that Knut would officially engage with Internal Security Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki regarding the insecurity in schools located in banditry-prone areas.
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In Transmara, Narok County, Mr. Oyuu emphasized the detrimental impact of insecurity on learning in certain regions of the country. Specifically pointing to the recent killing of a visually impaired teacher in Baringo County, Oyuu asserted that it underscores a deeper problem that requires attention.
Thomas Kibet, the headteacher at Kagir Primary School, was fatally shot while traveling on a motorcycle with his family.
The family, en route to a meeting at Kipcherere Secondary School, was ambushed. Knut’s First Vice National Chairman, Malel Langat, emphasized the need to address recent conflicts along the Narok and Migori county border, which has disrupted learning due to intermittent school closures.
Joining the call for compensation were Knut Second National Woman Representative Mercy Ndungu, as well as other National Executive Council members. The demands for compensation come in the wake of the killing of a teacher on February 10.
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The family, aligning with human rights groups, urged swift investigations and vowed not to bury the deceased until the perpetrator is arrested and charged. They also appealed for government support for the teacher’s family and the 15 students financially dependent on him.
The affected counties of Samburu, Laikipia, Baringo, West Pokot, and Turkana have witnessed persistent banditry attacks, claiming numerous lives. Despite military operations in these areas, the violence persists.
In the North Rift region, schools have been shut down due to escalating violence, although the government allocated Sh100 million for the rehabilitation of attacked schools.
Despite promises from the government to deploy National Police Reservists for school protection, this has yet to be implemented, putting both learners and teachers at risk. Additionally, President William Ruto’s directive to reopen learning institutions has not been accompanied by the promised provision of meals for students.
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Prof Kindiki and Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale have made multiple visits to the affected area, but local leaders criticize these as ineffective public relations measures that have failed to restore order.
Knut Demands Compensation for Fallen Teachers Amidst Banditry Attacks
