National Assembly to intervene in UHC workers' grievances, Speaker Wetang'ula assures Union

Tuesday, June 10th, 2025
Parliament Buildings

National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula has assured striking Universal Health Coverage (UHC) workers of the National Assembly’s commitment to resolving their grievances through legislative and budgetary intervention.

Speaking during a meeting with officials from the Kenya National Union of Medical Laboratory Officers (KNUMLO) at Parliament Buildings, Hon. Wetang’ula expressed empathy for the workers’ demands and reiterated Parliament’s role in championing their cause.

"I received a petition from the striking UHC workers and immediately directed the National Assembly Committee on Health to allocate resources in the 2025/26 budget to address their concerns," said the Speaker.

The Speaker disclosed that the National Assembly has already earmarked funds in the upcoming national budget to address key issues raised by the workers.

These include the conversion of contracts to permanent and pensionable terms and the payment of outstanding gratuities.

“These demands are not only valid but essential for ensuring stability in our healthcare workforce,” Wetang’ula affirmed.

However, he cautioned that implementation would depend on formal approval and appropriation of funds in the national budget to be presented this Thursday by Treasury Cabinet Secretary Hon. John Mbadi.

The Speaker urged the union, led by its Chairman Mr. Nicholas Odipo, to suspend the ongoing strike in anticipation of the budget’s passage, emphasizing the need for patience and faith in the legislative process.

“I understand your frustrations and while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, I appeal to you to picket in a civil manner and consider the impact on the delivery of community health services,” he added.

He noted that prolonged industrial action risks reversing the gains made under the UHC program, especially at the grassroots level.

The Speaker emphasized that Parliament remains committed to its oversight mandate and will ensure that funds allocated to the Ministry of Health are utilized strictly for their intended purposes.

“Rather than blame, let us focus on constructive solutions. Parliament is your ally in ensuring accountability and equity in the healthcare system,” Wetang’ula said.

He also expressed concern over disruptions caused by demonstrations outside Parliament, urging the workers to channel their grievances through structured dialogue.

Mr. Odipo welcomed the Speaker’s intervention, describing it as a significant step towards addressing longstanding concerns.

“We always pitch tent outside Parliament during demonstrations to seek attention from the House and we are encouraged that the Speaker has finally listened to us,” Odipo said.

He lamented that UHC workers have faced unfulfilled government promises regarding permanent employment, salary harmonization in line with Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) guidelines and access to benefits such as health insurance, pensions and professional development.

Odipo reiterated that the workers are not only demanding fairness but also job security before being transferred to county governments.

The meeting was also attended by Majority Party Chief Whip Hon. Silvanus Osoro, Hon. Martin Pepela and Hon. Duncan Mathenge, underscoring Parliament's collective concern over the matter.