DNK International By Xavier Lugaga, Scoop Agency
The plight of revenue officers sent on compulsory leave dominated discussions as the County Government of Busia convened a consultative meeting with the County Government Workers Union (COGWU) – Busia Branch to address pressing staff welfare concerns.
The officers, who were earlier sent home under unclear circumstances, have been awaiting formal communication on their fate. Their situation resurfaced during the high level meeting as union officials sought clarity on deployment procedures, acting appointments and the legality of administrative decisions affecting staff.
The meeting, chaired by County Secretary Oscar Juma, brought together county officials and union representatives in what was described as a structured engagement forum aimed at resolving long-standing labour concerns across departments.
Among the key issues tabled were staff promotions, medical cover, pending salary increments approved by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), delayed statutory and voluntary remittances, and working conditions.
On promotions, the County Secretary acknowledged that the last mass promotion exercise was conducted in 2019.
He noted that additional resources have been proposed in the next financial year to facilitate long overdue career progression for eligible staff.
The matter of medical cover also featured prominently.
Management explained that the awarded insurance premium fell below prevailing market rates, which affected effective implementation of the scheme.
Officials informed the union that additional funding has been requested in the County Fiscal Strategy Paper to enhance the medical insurance package going forward.
Regarding pending SRC-approved salary increments, the County Secretary clarified that implementation had left the county with a financial deficit.
He assured employees that payment of arrears would be considered subject to availability of funds.
Delayed remittance of statutory deductions, including pension and other contributions, was another contentious issue.
Management stated that some of the pending amounts were inherited liabilities and are currently being addressed under pending bills, with supplementary funding sought from the County Assembly.
On the sensitive issue of deployment procedures and acting appointments, including the case of revenue officers previously sent on leave, the County Secretary assured that all processes would be aligned strictly with the law.
He further indicated that formal communication outlining the way forward would be issued to affected officers.
Both parties agreed to sustain structured and regular consultative engagements, establish clear timelines and action points, and strengthen collaboration through a joint negotiation framework toward concluding a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
The County Government reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue, improved staff welfare and enhanced service delivery to the residents of Busia County.
[DNK-International@March 4,2026]
