Machakos University workers strike over delayed promotions

Machakos University staff have laid down their tools after their demands allegedly went unresolved by the institution's management, key among them delayed and denied promotions.

The staffers, drawn from the Kenya University Staff Union (KUSU) and the University Academic Staff Union (UASU), accuse the university Vice Chancellor Lucy Ndung'u of failing to provide an amicable solution to their woes.

Addressing the press after hours of demonstration and picketing around the university premises on Tuesday, the workers led by Machakos KUSU Secretary General Silvanus Mukai said the university management had failed to award promotions to their members for the last 10 years.

They also demanded that members of the union who are in an acting capacity be confirmed and that the university implements the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) 2016-2021.

In a letter addressed to the university, they alleged that there have been staff working on contract for more than five years without confirmation of permanent and pensionable terms, which they say is against the general labour practices and the Employment Act 2007.

Mr. Mukai similarly noted that some staff members have been in acting positions for more than one year without appointment to the said positions, which also contravenes labour laws.

Machakos UASU Secretary General Martin Kasina echoed the sentiments saying the issues cut across and serve only as an injustice to their members.

The union officials vowed to continue with their industrial action until their grievances are addressed.

Efforts by Citizen Digital to reach Vice Chancellor Lucy Ndung’u were futile as she was not in her office.

However, Adams Shisia, the Director of Corporate Affairs and Marketing, acknowledge the said allegations citing financial hardship as well as effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, but promised an amicable solution to the stalemate.