KUPPET Pushes for Expansion of Elective Positions and Review of 2010 Constitution
The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) is advocating for a revision of its constitution, asserting that it will enhance inclusivity and reinforce democratic processes.
The core of this initiative involves expanding elective positions from 10 to 16, allowing officials from marginalized regions like Coast, North Eastern, and Nairobi to assume national leadership roles.
The proposed constitutional changes also aim to introduce Proportional Representation (Pro Rata) in the appointment of union delegates.
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According to an internal report obtained by The Standard, the current Kuppet constitution was established in 2010 when the union had only 20,000 members.
At that time, Kuppet was not present in some parts of the country, resulting in only 10 delegates per branch during decision-making processes.
With Kuppet now boasting over 120,000 members nationwide, the report highlights that each delegate represents a minimum of 250 teachers, diminishing the democratic nature of decision-making within the union.
Union officials argue that a constitutional review is essential for Kuppet to align with Article 41 of the Constitution of Kenya, ensuring the right of all union members to participate in the union’s affairs.
The document asserts that the constitution needs a comprehensive overhaul to address its current shortcomings, emphasizing the dynamic nature of constitutions to meet evolving organizational needs.
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However, some Kuppet board members oppose the constitutional review, contending that it is a ploy to create positions for allies and hasten the retirement of senior officers.
The Kuppet report dismisses these claims, clarifying that retirement age is already defined in the existing constitution and national legislation.
Secretary General Akello Misori and National Chairman Omboko Milemba downplay the opposition, emphasizing the normal challenges associated with constitutional changes. They encourage members to engage in discussions on the proposed amendments.
In support of the constitutional review, the Kuppet document underscores the need to entrench democracy in the union. It points out the historical exclusion of newly registered branches, particularly in Coast and North Eastern regions, from mainstream union leadership.
Additionally, the document highlights gender imbalance and the lack of representation for teachers with disabilities in the union’s leadership, issues that a constitutional review aims to address.
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Last week, secondary school teachers pressed for expanded representation in the union at the national level, calling for a constitutional review aligned with the Constitution of Kenya.
The teachers argue that this would ensure the right of all members to participate in union affairs, promoting gender parity and representation of teachers with disabilities at the national level.
Executive Secretary Moses Mbora notes that the review would provide equal representation for all counties in the national delegates conference, giving a voice to teachers from diverse regions.
KUPPET Pushes for Expansion of Elective Positions and Review of 2010 Constitution