The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has threatened industrial action in Nyamira County over allegations that a newly appointed school principal is being intimidated by some Catholic clergy and members of the school’s Board of Management.

In a letter to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) dated Wednesday, September 2, KUPPET Nyamira said the principal of St Peter’s Nyakemincha Senior School had faced harassment, intimidation and interference since taking over the school on August 21.

The union claimed that some Catholic clergy and members of the Board of Management were trying to frustrate the principal and push him out of the school.

KUPPET said it had raised the matter with the TSC, the Ministry of Education and other government agencies, asking them to investigate the allegations and take appropriate action.

The union warned that the situation could lead to a major confrontation if the alleged intimidation continues.

KUPPET said its members in Nyamira could withdraw their services and organise peaceful processions across the county if the principal is prevented from carrying out his duties.

The union also called for an investigation into concerns that recommendations for the transfer of principals in Catholic-sponsored schools may sometimes be influenced by issues such as favouritism, nepotism, personal relationships and clan interests.

KUPPET’s latest warning comes shortly after the union issued a similar threat in Samburu following concerns over the killing of a teacher.

If the Nyamira strike threat is carried out, it could disrupt learning in schools across the county, especially because students are currently in the final term of the academic year.