Government Sparks Outrage: Defies Court Ban, Deducts Housing Levy from Teachers
Educators are voicing their dissatisfaction following the government’s withdrawal of housing levy funds from their February salaries, a move that goes against a court order prohibiting such deductions.
On February 28, Wednesday, the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Teachers (KUPPET) raised concerns about the government’s move to implement salary deductions, contradicting earlier assurances that such deductions would not take place.
As per Moses Nthurima, the Deputy Secretary-General of KUPPET, the government had given teachers assurance that any deductions made in January would be reimbursed.
He explained that the teachers had issued a letter requesting refunds, and in return, they were informed that no further deductions would be implemented.
Nevertheless, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) responded, clarifying that the deductions implemented in January were due to the pre-existing monthly payroll arrangements.
KUPPET mentioned that the commission had assured to reimburse the funds in February, a commitment they failed to honor.
The Union claims that, despite the Court of Appeal refusing to lift the orders prohibiting the levy and declaring it unconstitutional, the TSC not only failed to reinstate their fees but also deducted even more.
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Moreover, the teacher’s union emphasizes that the TSC is violating their rights through the deductions, especially in light of the court’s ruling deeming the levy unconstitutional.
Furthermore, they insist on being reimbursed for all the money deducted from them since the inception of the Housing Levy.
They further alleged that the commission had ingratiated itself with the government for a purpose that remains unclear to them.
KUPPET emphasized the need for the commission to operate independently, as they are responsible for formulating their budgets and receiving funds directly from the Treasury.
The National Assembly approved the housing levy fund, receiving widespread support from the majority of Members of Parliament.
At present, the bill is awaiting presentation in the Senate, and if approved, it will become law.
Government Sparks Outrage: Defies Court Ban, Deducts Housing Levy from Teachers
