Rising political violence force teachers to seek transfers ahead of 2027 polls, KUPPET warns
According to the union, at least 61 teachers have formally applied for transfers, while many more are contemplating similar moves amid reports of politicians engaging in divisive rhetoric that targets individuals perceived to be outsiders in certain regions.
The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has raised concern over increasing political violence in the country, warning that heightened political tensions ahead of the 2027 General Election could disrupt learning in several regions.
Speaking during a press briefing yesterday, KUPPET National Chairperson Omboko Milema revealed that teachers are increasingly expressing fears for their safety, with dozens already seeking transfers from areas they consider insecure due to growing political hostility.
According to the union, at least 61 teachers have formally applied for transfers, while many more are contemplating similar moves amid reports of politicians engaging in divisive rhetoric that targets individuals perceived to be outsiders in certain regions.
“We are sending a stern warning to politicians and all the leaders who are spreading divisive politics and telling those who are not from a particular region to leave. We are not going to accept that as teachers,” Milema said.
He cautioned that the emerging trend threatens not only the welfare of teachers but also the stability of learning institutions, especially in regions experiencing heightened political temperatures.
KUPPET Deputy Secretary-General Moses Nthurima urged security agencies to take firm action against leaders accused of promoting ethnic intolerance and incitement before the situation deteriorates further.
“We urge the police, the DCI and the NCIC to hold politicians to account for their speech before it’s too late,” Nthurima said.
He also expressed concern over what the union described as the growing deployment of hired youth gangs to disrupt political and public gatherings, warning that the phenomenon was becoming institutionalised.
“Security agencies must also address the emerging issue of goonism, which is formalising political violence in Kenya,” he added.
The union’s concerns come against the backdrop of a series of politically linked disturbances witnessed in recent months, including incidents in which suspected hired goons disrupted meetings and rallies, occasionally leading to injuries, destruction of property and loss of lives.
One such incident involved the invasion of All Saints Cathedral Church meeting in Nairobi by suspected hired youths who reportedly robbed participants and vandalised property.
The attack raised fears of growing politically linked criminal gangs raising fresh questions about the safety of citizens as the country gradually enters the electioneering period.
