The Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU), representing the staff of the National Identification Authority (NIA), has declared an indefinite strike commencing Tuesday, June 24, 2025. This action stems from the government’s failure to fulfill a crucial financial obligation, specifically the payment of the Operational Support Allowance, a vital supplement to the basic salaries of NIA employees. The union emphasizes that this allowance was the result of extensive negotiations concluded in July 2024 between the government, represented by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission and the Ministry of Finance, and the union itself. The agreement stipulated the regular payment of this allowance, acknowledging the demanding nature of the NIA’s work and the associated costs. The non-payment represents a breach of a formally negotiated and agreed-upon contract, impacting the livelihoods of the NIA staff. The union’s decision to strike, therefore, highlights a fundamental breakdown in trust between the government and its employees.
The PSWU expresses deep disappointment with the Ministry of Finance’s lack of communication and commitment regarding the outstanding payments. While the allowance was initially paid from August to December 2024, payments abruptly ceased in January 2025 without any explanation provided to the NIA staff. This sudden cessation, combined with the Ministry’s silence, created considerable anxiety and frustration amongst the workers, who rely on this allowance to supplement their income. The union’s statement outlines the repeated attempts made by its members to engage with the Ministry of Finance, all of which have been met with silence and a demonstrable lack of urgency. This dismissive approach underscores the government’s perceived disregard for the well-being of its employees and the importance of honoring agreed-upon commitments.
The union stresses that the decision to strike was not taken lightly. Their members have exercised significant patience and restraint over the past six months, trusting the assurances from NIA management who communicated that efforts were underway to resolve the issue. However, the continued lack of action and the absence of any clear timeline for payment have left the workers with no other recourse. The indefinite nature of the strike reflects the severity of the situation and the workers’ resolve to secure their rightful entitlements. The PSWU has directed all its members at the NIA to withdraw their services until their legitimate concerns are addressed and the outstanding payments are resumed. This united front demonstrates the collective frustration and determination of the NIA staff to hold the government accountable for its promises.
The union’s statement further underscores the vital role the NIA plays in national identification and documentation. The strike, therefore, is expected to significantly disrupt the NIA’s operations, impacting crucial services such as the issuance and renewal of national identification cards. This disruption could have far-reaching consequences for citizens who rely on these services for various purposes, including accessing government services, opening bank accounts, and participating in elections. The PSWU acknowledges the potential impact of the strike on the public but emphasizes that the responsibility for the disruption lies squarely with the government’s failure to honor its commitments. The union frames the strike as a last resort, driven by the government’s inaction and disregard for the well-being of its employees.
While taking this drastic step, the PSWU reiterates its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue with the government, provided that such discussions lead to prompt and full payment of the Operational Support Allowance as originally negotiated and agreed upon. The union urges its members to remain united, peaceful, and law-abiding throughout the strike. This call for unity and peaceful conduct emphasizes the union’s commitment to a lawful and respectful protest, focusing on the achievement of their legitimate demands. The statement concludes by emphasizing the union’s openness to dialogue, but it makes clear that the dialogue must be meaningful and result in tangible action.
The strike by NIA staff represents a significant development in the ongoing tension between public sector workers and the government over remuneration and working conditions. The PSWU’s decision highlights the importance of honoring agreements, respecting employees’ rights, and engaging in meaningful dialogue to address grievances. The strike’s impact on NIA operations and the potential disruption to essential services underscores the need for a swift resolution to the impasse. The union’s call for constructive dialogue offers a pathway towards resolving the dispute, but the onus is on the government to demonstrate good faith and take concrete steps to address the legitimate concerns of the NIA workers. The outcome of this strike will likely have broader implications for labor relations within the public sector and the government’s ability to maintain trust and ensure the smooth functioning of essential services.
