KNUT, KUPPET issue 7-day strike threat over killing of JSS teacher in Samburu

The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) have threatened to strike for seven days over the murder of a Junior Secondary School teacher in Samburu. Addressing the media on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, the unions expressed their outrage over the attack and highlighted ongoing insecurity issues affecting educators in the region.

According to the unions, the teacher was ambushed at his residence in Samburu, resulting in his death alongside the theft of some livestock. Samburu KNUT Secretary-General Richard Lentaya criticized the sluggish pace of investigations into incidents involving teachers who have perished in the area. He underscored the numerous teacher fatalities in the region without corresponding action to address insecurity or bring perpetrators to justice.

"We deplore the killing of our teacher and implore the authorities to take immediate action," Lentaya stated, pressing for a swift investigation into the teacher's demise. KUPPET Samburu Chapter Secretary-General Peter Leteipa also announced a seven-day ultimatum to the government, demanding the withdrawal of teachers from designated high-risk zones in Samburu East within a week.

"We strongly condemn the tragic killing of JSS teacher Mark Lemaramba, who was teaching at Nguitongon Comprehensive School," Leteipa remarked. The union pledged to implement measures to protect its members, including withdrawing teachers from dangerous areas, organizing protests and petitions, and presenting grievances to authorities.

Should the government fail to heed their demands, teachers are prepared to protest at sub-county and county levels. The unions emphasized the urgent need to safeguard teachers, particularly those operating in insecure regions. Meanwhile, investigative bodies have launched an inquiry into the teacher's murder to uncover the details of the incident and identify the culprits.