Public sector unions stage peaceful march opposing housing levy, tax hikes

Officials of public sector unions on Monday staged in a peaceful march in the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) protesting a raft of recently proposed government measures.

The unions that participated in the procession included; the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU), Universities and Academic Staff Union (UASU), Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO), Kenya National Teachers Union (KNUT), and the Kenya National Nurses Union (KNUN).

The march was occasioned by looming tax hikes spelt out in the proposed Finance Bill, 2023, as well as the heavily controversial 3 per cent housing levy.

KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah, in a statement to newsrooms, said the procession took the union officials to Parliament where they presented a petition against the said proposed government reforms.

“We marched to ensure that the voices of workers are heard loud and clear. The proposed housing levy and tax increases have a significant impact on our members, their families, and their livelihoods,” said Dr. Atellah.

“We demand fair and transparent decision-making processes that consider the well-being of the workforce. Together, we stand against unjust burdens placed upon workers.”

He added: “We advocate for equitable solutions that balance the needs of the government with the rights of its dedicated public servants. Our peaceful procession symbolizes our unwavering commitment to fighting for workers' rights and holding those in power accountable.”

The KMPDU boss further called upon all stakeholders to engage in dialogue geared towards finding sustainable resolutions to the issues bedevilling the country, but with a keenness to not overburden Kenyans.