Union Calls for Invclusion in TSC’s Sh17 Billion Spending Plan
The Kenya Independent Commissions Workers Union (KICOWU) has urged the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to formally include its members stationed at the TSC secretariat in the commission’s proposed Sh17 billion budget. This call for inclusion comes in response to what the union describes as a longstanding neglect of essential workers who, despite being integral to the functioning of the commission, have consistently been left out of budgetary considerations.
According to KICOWU Secretary-General Njeru Kanyamba, employees at the TSC secretariat perform vital duties that support the broader operations of the commission, yet they have not received due recognition in terms of financial planning. He emphasized that the union has historically faced difficulties in accessing and recruiting members within several government commissions, including the TSC. These challenges have hindered the union’s ability to effectively represent and advocate for the rights and welfare of its members.
KICOWU, which also represents workers in other key bodies such as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), has encountered similar roadblocks in engaging with staff across different independent commissions. Kanyamba noted that the inability to interact freely with employees of these institutions has significantly restricted the union’s capacity to address labor issues and push for fair treatment.
To address this, the union is now actively seeking official recognition within the budgeting process. Kanyamba underscored that inclusion in the budget would not only validate the union’s role but also empower it to more effectively advocate for improved working conditions and equitable treatment for all commission employees. He argued that just as the government allocates considerable resources to its agencies, a portion should be designated to support unions that play a crucial role in safeguarding workers’ rights.
Furthermore, KICOWU’s core mandate involves championing fair labor practices, negotiating just salaries for equal work, and fostering healthy relationships between employers and employees. Kanyamba stressed that these goals align with the overarching mission of public commissions and are vital for ensuring efficiency and harmony within such institutions. As such, the union insists that its inclusion in the TSC’s financial plans is not only justified but necessary for the commission’s continued success and sustainability.
