TSC’s Interdiction of Non-Local Teachers: Security Concerns
TSC’s Interdiction of Non-Local Teachers: Security Concerns. The Teachers Service Commission has taken a significant step by interdicting non-local teachers seeking transfers from the northeastern region of Kenya due to security concerns. This decision was in response to alleged desertion of teaching duties.
In September, the Teachers Service Commission issued a directive, instructing all teachers to return to their originally assigned workstations. Despite this directive, a group of affected teachers, questioning the authority of the TSC, plans to protest outside the commission’s headquarters next week and seek parliamentary intervention.
One of these affected teachers, Geoffrey Kipng’eno Lelon, hailing from Kericho County but residing in Mandera County, passionately described the challenges they face in returning to their assigned workstations, primarily due to security concerns.
Under the leadership of Nancy Macharia, the Teachers Service Commission cited a violation of the Teachers Service Commission Act, specifically breaching clause (b)(iv) of the Third Schedule. The commission’s records accuse these teachers of deserting their teaching duties at Rhamu Day Secondary School and Fincharo Primary School from September 9, 2023, onward. Consequently, the interdiction decision took effect on September 22, 2023, affecting all teachers served by the TSC.
Security Concerns for Teachers
Some affected teachers, concerned about potential consequences, expressed their objections to the TSC’s decision. They insist that they were initially summoned to compile a list of teachers who hadn’t returned, only to be taken by surprise when these transfers were suddenly turned into interdictions, leaving them deeply agitated and bewildered.
These teachers have maintained a presence at the TSC headquarters for weeks, pressing for relocation from the northeastern region due to insecurity caused by the Al-Shabaab threat and community hostility. They assert that the TSC hasn’t adequately addressed their concerns.
Furthermore, the TSC outlined a comprehensive seven-step appeals process for the interdicted teachers. This process includes steps like submitting defense statements within 21 days, having in-person meetings with the commission, and selecting the nearest TSC sub-county for monthly reporting.
Additional requirements include providing supplementary evidence, vacating their offices, sharing their contact information, and relinquishing their annual leave. Despite these procedures, the reprimanded teachers plan to demonstrate in front of the TSC offices next Monday.