The Kenya National Union of Teachers(KNUT) has decried the failure by the government to allocate funds for teachers’ promotion in the appropriation bill.

Kericho Branch Secretary Ann Cheruiyot says teachers have been patient enough and expected salary increases as per their collective Bargaining Agreement.

According to Cheruiyot, the decision has left teachers demoralized, since President William Ruto had personally promised to handle the matter.

“Teachers have been patient for long and expected that money meant for salary increase would be factored in the Appropriation Bill. Teachers are unhappy and we will not go back to school come September,” she stated.

Addressing the press, she urged the Union’s national office to give direction on the next course of action, stating that teachers in the region will not go back to work when schools reopen in September.

Cheruiyot further demanded the reinstatement of hardship allowance to teachers in hardship parts of the county, saying abolishment of the funds is a violation of teachers’ rights.

“Teachers in Ainamoi, Kipkelion and Soin/ Sigowett used to get hardship allowance. However, we dont know why the allowances were abolished. This is unacceptable and we want the money back. I ask all elected leaders in our county to intervene urgently,” added

The Appropriation bill, which was signed by President William Ruto on Tuesday, however set aside funds for the confirmation of JSS teachers.

The Union continues to demand the implementation of the last phase of the CBA this month, with the government blaming the rejection of the Finance Bill for its inability to implement the CBA.