Non-local Teachers In North Eastern Interdicted by TSC
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has taken a significant action against non-local teachers seeking transfers out of north-eastern Kenya due to security concerns. The TSC has interdicted these teachers, accusing them of desertion of duty. In September, the TSC issued a directive instructing teachers to report to their assigned workstations, but the affected teachers, including Geoffrey Kipng’eno Lelon, who resides in Mandera County but teaches in Kericho County, claim they were unable to return due to insecurity.
Lelon and others mention the financial and safety challenges they face in returning to their workstations, with long and costly travel by both road and air. In response, the TSC led by Nancy Macharia cited a violation of the Teachers Service Commission Act and accused the teachers of deserting their duties at Rhamu Day Secondary School and Fincharo Primary School from September 9, 2023, to the present. They were interdicted as of September 22, 2023.
Some of the affected teachers expressed shock and confusion over the TSC’s decision, claiming that they had initially been asked to compile a list of non-returning teachers, which was later changed to interdiction. Fearing repercussions, these teachers sought unanimity in condemning the TSC’s actions.
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The teachers have been protesting at the TSC headquarters for weeks, seeking to be relocated from the region due to insecurity caused by the Al-Shabaab terror threat and community hostility. They argue that the TSC has not adequately addressed their concerns and requests.
The TSC outlined a seven-step appeals process for the interdicted educators, which includes submitting defense statements, meeting the commission in person, reporting to the nearest TSC sub-county once a month, providing additional evidence, vacating their offices, and sharing contact information. The affected teachers now plan to stage a demonstration in front of the TSC offices on Monday to seek resolution for their situation.
Non-local Teachers In North Eastern Interdicted by TSC
