By Twink Jones Gadama
Civil servants in Malawi have embarked on a nationwide strike, effective today, Tuesday, February 25, 2025.
The strike, called by the Civil Servants Trade Union of Malawi (CSTUM) and the Teachers Union of Malawi (TUM), is in response to the government’s failure to address their grievances regarding fair salary adjustments and allowance increases.
According to a letter signed by Charles Kumchenga, President of CSTUM, the government’s offer of a 10% salary hike is an insult, considering the skyrocketing prices of commodities.
The letter highlights that civil servants contribute significantly to the development of the nation, yet their hard work and dedication are not appreciated.
The strike is not a new development, as civil servants have been threatening to take industrial action since last year.
In January 2023, the CSTUM and TUM had notified the government of their intention to call for a nationwide strike, citing the government’s failure to address their concerns.
The current strike is a culmination of the prolonged negotiations between the government and the unions.
The government’s decision to increase the salaries of members of parliament by 100% in the last financial fiscal year budget, while offering civil servants a mere 15% increase, has been cited as one of the major grievances.
The strike is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s public services, including healthcare, education, and administration.
The unions have urged all civil servants to stand united and demand the respect and compensation they deserve.
As the strike begins, the government is yet to respond to the unions’ demands.
The situation is being closely monitored, and it remains to be seen how the government will address the grievances of the civil servants.
In the meantime, the people of Malawi can only hope that the strike will be resolved amicably and that the government will take the necessary steps to address the concerns of the civil servants.
The strike is a clear indication that the civil servants will no longer be taken for granted, and it is time for the government to take their demands seriously.
