Concerns over political interference in teacher recruitment have resurfaced after Nakuru West MP Samuel Arama accused the government of turning employment into a tool of political patronage.
MP Arama claimed that appointment letters issued by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), which should be processed independently, are allegedly being shared out through political channels, particularly State House, disadvantaging teachers linked to MPs perceived as unsupportive of the government.
The legislator alleged that the letters are issued outside the TSC’s legal framework and selectively allocated to a few favoured MPs. He said he has personally been excluded on claims that he does not sufficiently support the government, despite his insistence that he has been loyal.
Arama further criticised what he termed the monopolisation of teacher appointments, noting that some MPs reportedly receive between 10 and 15 letters each. He questioned why employment opportunities should be concentrated among politicians from certain communities while others are sidelined.
Warning ahead of the 2027 General Election, Arama said voters would respond politically to such practices, arguing that communities will seek leadership that guarantees fair access to opportunities.
The claims revive long-standing concerns over the erosion of TSC’s independence. Past recruitment drives, public distribution of letters by politicians, alleged cartels selling forged appointments, and interference in promotions have all raised alarm. Constitutionally, Article 237 grants the TSC exclusive authority over teacher recruitment and management.