The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has raised concerns over rising political tensions in the country, warning that escalating political violence could disrupt learning in some regions ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The union says hundreds of teachers have already begun seeking transfers from areas they consider unsafe due to growing insecurity and increasing political intolerance.
Speaking during a press briefing on Wednesday, KUPPET Chairperson Omboko Milema expressed concern over reports of leaders engaging in divisive politics and making statements that could heighten tensions in different parts of the country.
According to Milema, teachers should not be subjected to fear or intimidation while carrying out their duties, noting that some educators are increasingly worried about their safety as political activities intensify.
“We are sending a stern warning to politicians and leaders spreading divisive politics and telling people from certain communities to leave particular regions. We will not accept that as teachers,” he said.
The union warned that if the trend continues, schools in affected areas could experience disruptions as teachers seek transfers to what they perceive as safer locations.
KUPPET also called on security agencies to take firm action against leaders accused of incitement and hate speech before the situation worsens.
Deputy Secretary General Moses Nthurima urged the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the National Police Service to closely monitor political activities and hold those responsible for inflammatory remarks accountable.
“We urge the police, the DCI and the NCIC to hold politicians accountable for their utterances before it is too late,” said Nthurima.
The union also raised concerns over the increasing use of organised groups of youth to disrupt political gatherings and public events, saying the trend poses a serious threat to peace and national cohesion.
The concerns come amid growing reports of politically linked confrontations and disruptions at public events in different parts of the country.
KUPPET warned that the education sector could become one of the casualties of political instability if leaders fail to exercise restraint and promote peaceful coexistence.
The union emphasized that schools should remain safe spaces for learning and urged leaders across the political divide to avoid rhetoric that could divide communities or create fear among public servants.
Meanwhile, security agencies have maintained that they will not tolerate political violence and have warned that anyone found participating in or sponsoring violent acts will face the full force of the law.
As the country gradually shifts attention towards the next election cycle, KUPPET says protecting peace and safeguarding learning institutions must remain a national priority.
 has raised concerns over rising political tensions in the country, warning that escalating political violence could disrupt learning in some regions ahead of the 2027 General Election.){kind=link}