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Teachers’ Unions Call for Ruto-Raila Dialogue, Highlight Disruption to Learning

Teachers’ unions, Knut and Kuppet, have appealed for a dialogue between President William Ruto and Opposition leader Raila Odinga to resolve the ongoing anti-government demonstrations that have been causing severe disruptions to the education sector. During separate events in Eldoret, union officials emphasized that the Azimio-led protests were negatively impacting learning in numerous schools and further deteriorating the already struggling economy.

Kuppet’s vice chairman, Julius Korir, and deputy secretary general, Moses Nthurima, criticized the uncompromising stances taken by political leaders, stating that such positions would only harm rather than help the country. They stressed the importance of dialogue to foster unity among Kenyans.

Korir stated that progress would be hindered if government leaders and Azimio representatives did not engage in meaningful dialogue to put an end to the destructive demonstrations. He emphasized the need for leaders to come together after the concluded elections and focus on planning for the country’s growth instead of engaging in endless battles.

Referring to an incident where tear gas was thrown into a school in Nairobi, resulting in harm to students, Korir expressed concern over the safety of children being exposed to such dangers due to political power struggles. He urged political leaders to promptly convene a forum to address grievances and find resolutions, thereby preventing further bloodshed and destruction.

At the same time, officials from KNUT (Kenya National Union of Teachers), led by Sammy Borr, voiced their disapproval of the Azimio demonstrations during the KNUT Chepkoilel branch Annual General Meeting. Borr emphasized that President Ruto was duly elected and urged the opposition to grant him the opportunity to implement his development agenda. He called upon leaders to focus on the country’s development and avoid unnecessary tensions, urging Azimio leaders to pursue better channels for addressing grievances rather than resorting to violent demonstrations.

Both unions stressed the urgency of the government and the Teachers Service Commission addressing teachers’ concerns, including the improvement of terms and conditions of service and the recruitment of more teachers. Nthurima specifically highlighted the need for swift salary harmonization for the TSC secretariat and teachers to ensure that they receive the compensation they deserve. He noted that teachers had already suffered losses exceeding Sh125 billion due to the lack of harmonization.

Muslim leaders, led by the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) National Chairman Hassan Ole Naado, have voiced their strong disapproval of Azimio’s plan to hold protests on Friday. Naado emphasized that Friday is a sacred day for worship among the Muslim faithful and should be respected and exempted from any demonstrations or disturbances. He expressed sadness over the proposal to stage protests on Fridays, stating that it would interfere with the religious obligations and practices of the Muslim community.

Naado further highlighted the negative impact of the previous Wednesday demonstrations on worship sessions. He noted that due to the uncertainties surrounding the protests, very few people were able to attend mosques, leading to a significant decline in participation. This firsthand experience further strengthened the argument against holding protests on days of religious significance, as it hampers the ability of Muslims to fulfill their spiritual duties.

Meanwhile, the opposition has escalated its resistance against President William Ruto’s government by calling for street protests not only on Friday but also on Wednesday and Thursday. However, Interior CS Kithure Kindiki issued a stern warning against these planned demonstrations. Kindiki emphasized that his ministry would not tolerate any further losses resulting from the protests organized by the Azimio coalition. He made it clear that attempting any disruptive activities on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday would have severe consequences, urging the opposition to reconsider their plans.

In summary, Muslim leaders, represented by SUPKEM’s National Chairman, Hassan Ole Naado, have expressed their concerns and opposition to holding protests on Friday. They stressed the importance of respecting Friday as a day of worship for the Muslim community. With the opposition planning demonstrations on multiple days, including Friday, the government has issued a warning against any disruptive activities, emphasizing their commitment to preventing further losses resulting from the protests.

Greetings,

It has been a while, and I hope you are doing well. The task ahead of me is not an easy one, and it requires thorough preparation. First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to God for sustaining me thus far. Last year, I ran for the Nairobi Senatorial position as an Independent candidate, with only a month remaining until the general nominations. My decision to run was driven by the need to ensure my survival. At that time, my life was in danger due to my involvement with Burundi Asylum seekers in Kenya, who were being hunted by President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi. The situation was complicated, and remaining silent was not an option. As the Chairman of Youths For Ruto Kenya, I coordinated this operation, which involved numerous related challenges. I would like to express my appreciation to the Deputy President, who was then the President, for providing me with support and cover during that time.

My survival has been a strategic endeavor. In less than 30 days, I managed to gather the names and ID copies of two thousand supporters. It was a chaotic process, but unfortunately, my sponsor abandoned me at the last minute, making it impossible for me to get on the ballot. Nevertheless, the level of intelligence sophistication displayed by the National Intelligence Service was remarkable. The NIS can attest that among the Senatorial candidates gazetted for Nairobi County, I was one of the most astute. I apologize if it seems like I am boasting; that is not my intention.

Since June 2021, I have kept a low profile and remained indoors. Although things have been secure, they have not been normal. In fact, international media visited my workplace seeking an interview. However, my boss fled, leaving me dumbfounded. I was unable to think clearly and ended up giving the reporters my personal contact information to reach me outside of work. My thoughts were scattered, and I had to lock myself in my office to regain focus. In my own words, I can confidently say that I am ready to serve. The people of Nairobi should trust me to be their representative in the government. What do I stand to gain by wanting it all? Our progress is hindered by mediocrity, which can be eliminated. Corruption can be uprooted or significantly reduced. We yearn for a clean system, and we must infuse it with integrity. I am the vaccine, the solution for Nairobi. Together, let us shape Nairobi, and the rest of Kenya will follow. It is time for upright individuals to step forward and be counted. Sifuna has had his fair share; his time is up. Mr. Sifuna could consider running as the Senator for Bungoma, but I assure you that Senator Wakoli is a formidable opponent. My allegiance lies with the people of Kenya, not Mr. Odinga or anyone else. The interests of the people are my top priority. I firmly believe that we can ensure proper service delivery in the government and all related offices. I have strong faith that our law enforcement officers can conduct themselves with decency and refrain from engaging in corrupt practices at any given time. A government for the people, by the people, is a government that serves the people’s agenda. As the Senator, I will ensure that this becomes a reality. This is just the beginning of a beautiful story. Let us embark on this journey together, taking our time to plan and execute the best strategies. May God guide our way.

Thank you.

Regards, Namachanja Khapoya Nairobi Senator Designate

The potential transfer of Lionel Messi to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS) could have indirect implications for Arsenal’s transfer plans. The report suggests that Messi’s move to Miami could impact Barcelona’s ability to sign other players, including targets that Arsenal has been linked with.

Barcelona, facing financial difficulties, had shown interest in signing Manchester City duo Joao Cancelo and Ilkay Gundogan, who have also been linked with Arsenal. If Barcelona misses out on signing Messi, it would potentially free up salary space for them to pursue other targets, such as Cancelo and Gundogan.

Joao Cancelo, a talented fullback, had a falling out with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City and spent the second half of the 2022/23 season on loan at Bayern Munich. Recent reports have linked Cancelo with both Arsenal and Barcelona, suggesting that he may not have a future at Manchester City.

Ilkay Gundogan, on the other hand, is approaching the final weeks of his contract with Manchester City. If he doesn’t agree on a new deal, he would be available on a free transfer. While there were rumors of Gundogan signing a new contract with City, his agent denied them and stated that no agreement has been reached with any club.

In summary, if Messi joins Inter Miami instead of returning to Barcelona, it could potentially affect Barcelona’s ability to sign players like Cancelo and Gundogan. This, in turn, could impact Arsenal’s transfer plans if they were considering moves for these players. However, it’s important to note that transfer plans can be fluid, and the situation may change as negotiations and player decisions unfold.

Dancehall icon Vybz Kartel, also known as Adidja Palmer, is currently battling a severe and potentially life-threatening ailment while serving his prison sentence. The artist has been diagnosed with Graves’ Disease, a thyroid condition, which he has been struggling with for the past seven years. Despite undergoing treatment, the condition has persisted, and his private physician, Karen Philips, has recommended immediate surgery to prevent further complications and potential fatality.

Kartel’s family is deeply distressed and has been offering prayers for his well-being during this challenging time. However, concerns have been raised regarding the inhumane conditions of his confinement, which may have contributed to his deteriorating health. His attorney, Isat Buchanan, has highlighted the poor prison conditions, including a tiny solitary cell with inadequate ventilation and a bucket for sanitation purposes. These conditions pose significant health risks and have been detrimental to Kartel’s overall well-being.

Buchanan emphasized that Kartel’s physical appearance has drastically changed, with his face and neck swollen, and his eyes protruding. The attorney has contacted relevant prison and government authorities, urging them to address the urgent matter and improve the conditions in which Kartel is being held.

Meanwhile, Kartel’s son, Adidja Jaheim Palmer, also known as Likkle Vybz, expressed their family’s ongoing prayers and support for his father. Kartel has been incarcerated since 2014 after being convicted for the murder of Clive ‘Lizard’ Williams. He is currently serving a life sentence and will be eligible for parole after completing 35 years in prison.

The situation has raised concerns among fans and the entertainment community about Kartel’s health and the impact of his imprisonment. The artist’s plight has sparked discussions about the length of his sentence and the conditions he is enduring, with many questioning the possibility of his eventual release.