KUPPET Asks TSC To Reinstate BBF Deductions
KUPPET Asks TSC To Reinstate BBF Deductions
KUPPET Asks TSC To Reinstate BBF Deductions
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has been encouraged by the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) to start up the deductions for the Burial Benevolent Funds (BBF) again after they were stopped last month.
KUPPET Secretary General Akello Misori wrote to TSC Chief Executive Officer Dr. Nancy Macharia on May 30, 2014, asking the commission to reevaluate its decision to halt the BBF deductions until the union could offer more advice.
This memo, which was signed by Misori and reviewed by Education News Arena, expressed significant concern regarding the cessation of BBF deductions for KUPPET members. It strongly recommended that the TSC reverse its decision until proper guidance is provided by the union, as outlined in their mutual relations.
Misori indicated that the union is planning to hold a Special Delegates Conference to provide clear direction on the BBF issue. He noted that this meeting would be convened soon by national officials, some of whom are currently abroad. The intention is to address the matter comprehensively and provide specific directives to ensure that the interests of the members are adequately protected.
Meanwhile, Misori emphasized that the resolutions from the 2021 Annual Delegates Conference remain in effect. He referenced a letter dated May 17, 2021 (Ref KUPPET/TSC/015/21), advising the TSC to continue with the current BBF deductions for all KUPPET members. This letter reiterated the union’s stance that the BBF deductions are vital for maintaining a dignified support system for the bereaved families of deceased teachers.
On May 21, the TSC informed KUPPET that the BBF deductions would be suspended following a court petition by five union branch officials who claimed the deductions were illegal. The petition also called for the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate TSC for these deductions. The legal challenge, therefore, prompted the TSC to halt the BBF deductions in compliance with the court’s directive.
As stated in the aforementioned letter, the TSC agreed to stop all KUPPET BBF deductions in response to the petition and the request of the union representatives. The union has been deeply divided over this decision, which emphasizes the need for the Special Delegates Conference to settle the dispute and establish a consensus on the BBF deductions.
Previously, the BBF program had been essential in guaranteeing a respectable funeral for any teacher who passed away, with money taken out of instructors’ paychecks to assist grieving families. In order to protect the welfare of its members, KUPPET has pushed for the reinstatement of the BBF deductions due to concerns highlighted by the suspension of this support system.
