Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) chair Omboko Milemba has confirmed that teachers received Ksh.10,000 each during a visit to State House.
The Emuhaya MP said the money was a “transport reimbursement” given to the 10,000 teachers who attended Saturday’s meeting with President William Ruto. This means the State spent about Ksh.100 million.
Focus Was on Teachers’ Issues
Milemba dismissed claims that the teachers went to State House just for the money. He explained that the meeting was meant to solve long-standing issues affecting teachers.
“Teachers never went to State House just for money. Teachers were going to look at their issues,” Milemba said on Citizen TV.
One of the main issues was the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) worth Ksh.33.8 billion. Initially, the deal was to be implemented over four years. After talks with the President, it will now be paid within two years.
Good News for P1 Teachers
The meeting also addressed the plight of P1 teachers. Many had been stuck due to a freeze on employment, with some even retiring before securing jobs. Milemba confirmed that recruitment will resume in the next financial year.
Criticism From MPs
However, not everyone welcomed the outcome of the meeting. Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba strongly criticized it.
She argued that the gathering was more about politics than solving teachers’ challenges.
“What I saw in State House was a meeting to create a perception that the President has the support of teachers but the critical issues are never discussed,” she said.
Wamuchomba also accused the Executive of taking over Parliament’s role in budget decisions.
“I am disappointed that teachers are being taken for a ride and can be paraded in State House just for a meal and dance,” she added.
Debate Continues
The meeting has divided opinion. Supporters believe it secured real gains for teachers. Critics see it as political theatre meant to boost the President’s image.
