Politicians told to Protect school property

By Titus Too  and Renson Buluma

Nairobi,Kenya- Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) has urged political parties to ensure school property is not destroyed during nominations.

Busia Knut executive secretary Mark Oseno expressed concern that without a proper security plan, school managements may end up incurring unnecessary costs resulting from destruction of property.

“History shows this kind of exercises are usually charged and may result in violence. It is important that Government compels those who will be managing the exercise to take responsibility for any damages,” said Oseno. Mr Oseno urged teachers to actively participate in civic education to help voters make informed decisions on choosing leaders to save the country from a costly presidential runoff.

“A presidential run-off will be costly and time-wasting. If the country can get a president in the first round, then we can save the money to pay salaries or improve infrastructure,” he observed. Meanwhile, Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet) wants Government to declare next Thursday a public holiday.

Kuppet national vice-chairman Julius Korir said learners should be released from schools because education programmes will be interrupted.  He said teachers will also take the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights by participating in the nominations.

“The main alliances will hold primaries on January 17. Learning will be interrupted. The Government should declare the day a public holiday,” said Korir.

Election calendar

The official said yesterday due to lack of halls, political parties would use learning institutions.

“We should not cheat ourselves that learning will go on. Teachers will also require time to go and participate in nominations,” added Korir.

He said he has himself taken leave so that he can participate in the nominations. “As stakeholders in the education sector, we are calling for amendments that will change the election calendar back to December,” said Korir. He said December elections are more appropriate because most Kenyans take leave to join their families during the festive season.

Meanwhile, as nominations day nears, a section of leaders expressed concerns over lack of civic education.