A senior official at the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is facing allegations of manipulating staffing processes in county offices, particularly in Kisumu, sparking controversy and condemnation from stakeholders.
The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has voiced concerns, demanding that the TSC be allowed to operate independently without undue interference. Speaking on behalf of Kisumu teachers, KNUT’s Kisumu City Branch Executive Secretary, Mr. David Obuon, accused the unnamed commissioner of micromanaging school staffing by placing his associates and relatives in key positions.
Obuon cited a recent incident where the commissioner allegedly influenced the transfer of a school headteacher from an institution where he serves as a board chairman to another school where his relative holds a leadership position.
“The TSC policy on recruitment and replacement gives priority to sub-counties where vacancies arise, but this has not been honored in Kisumu due to this official’s interference,” Obuon stated.
He further condemned the commissioner’s actions, noting that they undermine impartiality and transparency in staffing processes. Obuon emphasized that such interference violates the principles of division of labour and separation of powers, which are critical for the smooth functioning of the education sector.
Concerns have also emerged over a potential conflict of interest, as the commissioner is reportedly campaigning for a parliamentary seat in Kisumu. Obuon called on him to focus on his official TSC duties and refrain from meddling in local education matters.
“We are demanding that he stick to the responsibilities assigned to TSC commissioners and stop this underhanded micromanagement of Kisumu schools,” Obuon concluded, expressing teachers’ frustration over punitive policies allegedly driven by the same commissioner.
The TSC has yet to issue an official response to the allegations. Authorities have hinted that a statement may be forthcoming soon. With tensions escalating and schools set to reopen in January, teachers and local stakeholders are watching closely to see how the situation will be resolved
