The Union of Kenya Civil Servants has issued a stern warning to the government, demanding the immediate allocation of funds for the agreed-upon salary increments for civil servants. Secretary General Tom Odege announced that workers would down their tools next month if the government fails to meet its obligations.
Odege, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Nyatike, emphasized that civil servants are expecting the salary increase, as previously agreed upon in court. He asserted that the government is legally bound to implement the pay raise, dismissing any attempts to defer the increment as unacceptable.
“The Salary and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has no authority to halt the salary increase for civil servants,” Odege declared. “This matter was settled in court, and only the court can overturn it.”
The salary increment, which was budgeted for in the last financial year, has become a point of contention as the government grapples with economic challenges. However, Odege insists that the agreed pay rise must be honored, regardless of the current financial constraints. He rejected any links between the delayed salary increments and the recently withdrawn Finance Bill 2024, which sparked widespread protests across the country.
“The civil servants expect their salaries to increase as planned, and we are not ready to entertain any excuses from the government,” Odege said, reinforcing the union’s firm stance on the issue.
The union’s warning sets the stage for a potential nationwide strike, adding pressure on the government to resolve the dispute. With civil servants representing a significant portion of the country’s workforce, a strike could severely disrupt public services and further strain the government’s resources.
