The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) have issued the government with a seven-day ultimatum following the killing of a Junior Secondary School teacher in Samburu.

The unions are demanding urgent action to improve security for teachers working in areas affected by insecurity and ensure that those responsible for the teacher’s death are brought to justice.

The teacher, identified as Mark Dancun Lemaramba of Nguitongon Comprehensive School in Samburu East, was reportedly attacked at his home by unknown assailants. The attackers are also said to have taken some of his livestock.

The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of teachers working in parts of Samburu, with the unions saying educators should not be forced to work in areas where their lives are at risk.

KNUT Samburu Secretary-General Richard Lentaya condemned the killing and called on investigative authorities to move quickly in establishing what happened and apprehending those behind the attack.

KUPPET Samburu Secretary-General Peter Leteipa said the union would take action if the government fails to respond within seven days.

Among the measures being demanded is the withdrawal of teachers from high-risk areas of Samburu East until adequate security is provided.

The unions also warned that they could organise demonstrations and petitions at the sub-county and county levels to pressure authorities to address the security concerns.

They further called on the Ministry of Interior, police and investigative agencies to ensure that the suspects are arrested and face justice through the courts.

Investigations into the teacher’s death have already begun as authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.

The unions maintain that protecting teachers must be treated as a priority, particularly in regions where insecurity has previously affected educators and schools.