"Pay Now Or Else" Public University Lecturers Give Seven-Day Strike Warning To The Govt Over Unpaid Salaries

Public university lecturers in Kenya have threatened a seven-day strike, citing the government’s failure to fulfill obligations under the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). 

The warning comes just weeks before the start of the September academic term, raising concerns over potential disruption in higher education.

UASU Secretary-General, Mr. Wasonga, confirmed that the union has repeatedly tried to engage government officials to release pending payments but has received no concrete action. 

“We have pursued all available channels to ensure that the CBA is implemented. Unfortunately, our efforts have been ignored, leaving staff unpaid and frustrated,” he said.

The union demands that all arrears, including salaries and other contractual entitlements, be cleared before the new academic term begins.

Mr. Wasonga emphasized that the lecturers’ patience has limits and that if the government does not act promptly, withdrawal of services will be unavoidable.

“This is not a decision we take lightly. Our members are committed to education, but they also have the right to receive what they are owed. 

We hope the government acts quickly to prevent disruption,” he added.

Industrial actions by public university lecturers are not new in Kenya. 

Delays in implementing CBAs have historically led to strikes, highlighting ongoing funding and administrative challenges within the higher education sector. 

Experts note that such measures, while disruptive, are often the most effective leverage academic staff have to ensure timely payment.

The Ministry of Education has not issued an official statement regarding the latest strike notice. 

However, sources indicate ongoing discussions with the Treasury over the release of the required funds. 

No clear timeline for payments has been provided, leaving uncertainty among staff and students alike.

Students and parents have expressed concern over possible interruptions to classes and exams. 

Many have urged both the government and the lecturers to find a swift resolution to ensure that learning proceeds without delay.

UASU has vowed to monitor the situation closely in the coming days. 

If the government fails to meet the union’s demands, lecturers say they are ready to proceed with the strike.