The chaos that led to the abrupt ending of KUPPET Laikipia Branch General Assembly meeting on Saturday was rooted in disagreements over Branch Benevolent Fund (BBF) payments, officials now reveal.
A faction led by Gender Secretary Hellen Gathoni Githui and Organising Secretary Mungai Kihanya regretted what transpired at Thingithu Boys High School as shameful and some leaders should be held responsible.
“It saddens me that some union leaders are welcoming a culture of anarchy, propaganda and intimidation. This should not only disappoint but also disturb all of us,” lamented Githui.
She said it was unfortunate for teachers to be denied a chance to hear what National Treasurer Njenga Mwethi had to say in response to accusations levelled against him.
During the confrontations, chairs and dining tables belonging to the school were broken.
The compound was littered with papers and other objects, and the Chief Principal Sammy Githungu said he will hold the union accountable for the destruction.
Speaking to the Education News on Sunday, Gichui said it is sad that these leaders have been mismanaging and underpaying the Burial Benevolent Fund (BBF) even when the NGCWF guidelines were clear and precise.
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“During the BGA, some officials complained of increased payment of Burial and Benevolent Funds (BBF), which was being paid as per the National Governing Council (NGC) welfare guidelines,” she remarked.
The unionist alleged that following numerous complaints on the fund, the management of BBF had been given to other officials.
“During the meeting, some officials complained about the management of the BBF, demanding that Mwethi, who was the chief guest, responds to (questions) why he removed them as signatories,” said Githui.
Githui said Mwethi explained that BBF is a members’ money account, hence they (teachers) have a right to get financial statements and accountability.
“The branch was summoned by the Secretary General to resolve the issues raised by teachers of Laikipia. The signatories were advised to pay bereaved families the right amounts per recommended rates, a move that they deliberately ignored,” she said.
By our reporter
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