Operations at the National Identification Authority (NIA) have come to a standstill as members of the Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU) officially commenced an indefinite strike today.
The industrial action follows months of delays and what the union describes as “broken assurances” from the Ministry of Finance regarding the payment of their Operational Support Allowance.
The allowance, introduced in August 2024 after extensive negotiations with the Ministry of Finance, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, and the PSWU, was designed to supplement the relatively low basic salaries of NIA staff. However, payments were abruptly halted in January 2025 without explanation, despite continued work by staff and repeated assurances from NIA management that the issue would be resolved.
In a statement issued on Monday, June 23, the PSWU’s Divisional Executive Council described the strike as a “difficult but necessary” decision, citing the Ministry’s failure to provide a clear commitment or timeline for resuming payments. “This industrial action is not taken lightly. It reflects the deep frustration of staff who have endured this situation for far too long amidst persistent neglect,” the statement read.
The union emphasized that its members across the NIA’s Head Office, Regional Offices, Premium Centres, and District Offices are under severe financial and emotional strain. Despite a final round of discussions with the Ministry on June 23, no resolution was reached. This followed a public assurance from NIA management on June 18 that the allowances would be paid “very, very soon”.
The PSWU has directed all its members within the NIA to withdraw their services until the outstanding allowances are fully paid. While expressing willingness to return to the negotiation table, the union insists that any dialogue must result in the prompt and full payment of the agreed allowances.
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