The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers yesterday criticised Knut for boycotting salary increment talks. National deputy secretary Moses Nthurima said the union will reach an agreement with the government.

"We are going to negotiate on behalf of the teachers and Knut will own up to the agreement later,"said Nthurima. Nthurima, who was accompanied by Isiolo branch secretary Mwiti Gichunge during an annual general meeting, accused Knut of withdrawing from the talks before a deal is reached.

He criticised Knut for demanding a 300 per cent salary increment that excludes commuter and house allowances. He said Kuppet will ask for a 100 per cent increment of salaries, commuter and house allowances to address disparities in different job groups.

Nthurima said the negotiations with the government will put teachers salaries at par with those of the civil servants. He said primary school teachers who attain diplomas, degrees and masters qualify to be members of Kuppet.