NIA Staff Embark on Indefinite Strike Over Unpaid Operational Support Allowance

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Staff of the National Identification Authority (NIA) have declared an indefinite nationwide strike effective Tuesday, June 24, 2025, in protest against the government’s failure to resume payment of their Operational Support Allowance.

The decision was taken by the Divisional Executive Council of the Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU) – NIA after what they described as a “final round of engagement” with the Ministry of Finance on June 23 ended without any commitment or timeline on when the allowance would be paid.

In a statement issued on Tuesday morning, the Union said the strike action, though difficult, had become necessary due to the prolonged inaction and broken promises. “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.

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The allowance in question was part of a negotiated agreement reached in July 2024 between the government—through the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission and the Ministry of Finance—and the union. Payment began in August 2024 but stopped abruptly in January 2025.

Since then, staff have exercised patience, holding on to assurances from NIA management that the issue was being addressed. Management even publicly affirmed during a June 18 press briefing that payments would resume “very, very soon.” However, the Ministry of Finance has yet to take concrete action, sparking discontent among staff across NIA’s head office, regional and district branches, and premium centres.

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The Union emphasized that repeated follow-ups and good faith engagements had not been reciprocated with the seriousness the issue required. It added that the strike would continue until the full payment of the outstanding allowance is made.

“All PSWU members at the NIA are directed to withdraw their services indefinitely,” the statement instructed, urging members to remain peaceful and united during the strike.

The NIA plays a vital role in the issuance of national identification cards and population data management. The strike is expected to significantly impact operations across the country.

The Union reaffirmed its readiness to return to the negotiation table, provided the Ministry of Finance demonstrates commitment by fulfilling its part of the agreement.

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