Persistent Lecturers at Moi University Dig In Their Heels over Unfulfilled Promises

Moi University Lecturers' Strike Continues Over Unpaid Salaries and Debt

Moi University lecturers are currently on strike, demanding that the management honours a return-to-work formula signed last year. The strike, which has surpassed the 98-day mark, is not about fresh demands but about unpaid salaries and arrears dating back to 2020 and, in some cases, as far as eight years ago.

The grievances of the lecturers include a lack of a medical scheme for the past three months and non-remittance of staff loan deductions. Furthermore, the unpaid salaries and arrears are tied to the return-to-work formula, and portions of gross salaries are never disbursed, leaving staff with only net pay.

The lecturers also claim that failure to remit group life insurance premiums since 2017 has left more than 80 families of deceased staff uncompensated. Delayed pension payment for retirees is another grievance of the lecturers.

UASU chapter organising secretary Nyabuta Ojuki warned that Moi University's Sh8.6 billion debt, owed directly to staff, could lead to an explosion if not addressed. Ojuki clarified that the strike is not about fresh demands but about unpaid salaries and arrears.

Dr Duncan Mukhwana, UASU acting branch secretary Moi University Chapter, accused the council of disregarding signed agreements and failing to implement additional service years for some employees due for retirement. Dr Mukhwana also criticized the issuance of redundancy letters, despite a court ruling declaring the process unlawful.

The lecturers' union has accused the management of disregarding signed agreements. The union has sought dialogue, but management has remained silent, leaving staff with no choice but to stand firm in their demands despite intimidation and threats.

The union is ready to surpass the 98-day strike mark if need be if the council cannot address their issues. The lecturers urged the University Council to act swiftly to avoid interfering with the learning program.

Notably, Moi University's debt, unlike other universities, does not involve government agencies. Dr Mukhwana urged management to resolve the stalemate, warning against intimidation and threats targeting union members without proper explanation and guidance.

In conclusion, the Moi University lecturers' strike is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention from the university's management. The lecturers are willing to resume duty once the management implements last year's agreement, and the union has emphasised the need for dialogue to find a resolution. The ongoing strike has the potential to significantly impact the learning program at Moi University, and it is hoped that a resolution can be reached soon.