An employee of the Postal Corporation of Kenya (Posta Kenya) tragically took his own life earlier this month after enduring weeks of financial and psychological struggles stemming from a withheld salary.
Festus Kipkoech Bore, aged 32, had been working at the Namanga branch of Posta Kenya at the time of his death. According to his family, friends, and colleagues, the financial strain resulting from the unexplained suspension of his salary severely impacted his mental health, culminating in his decision to take his own life on the morning of January 16, 2025.
His family revealed that his challenges began last year when his salary was abruptly stopped for reasons that remain unclear. Efforts by community elders, workmates, and his church to provide support were ultimately unable to prevent the tragedy.
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This heartbreaking incident has brought to light the growing challenges at Posta Kenya, where employees have been grappling with salary delays, management issues, and operational inefficiencies. Over the years, reports of salary arrears, management disputes, and scandals involving staff credentials have tarnished the reputation of the organization.
Salary Delays and Financial Struggles
One of the most pressing issues at Posta Kenya has been the delayed payment of salaries. Workers at the institution have not received their wages for several months, with some going without pay since August 2024. Sources within the organization indicate that management’s response has been largely unhelpful, often resorting to intimidation rather than offering practical solutions.
The hope for resolution now seems tied to the return of senior executives, who are currently on vacation until February. In the meantime, the financial struggles continue to take a toll on employees and their families.
Go-Slow Strike and Operational Delays
Adding to the turmoil, reports have emerged of a go-slow strike among Posta Kenya staff, particularly those at key hubs like the Logistics Hub City Square and General Post Office (GPO). Frustrated by the management’s inaction, workers have resorted to deliberately delaying operations, including parcel deliveries and sorting. These disruptions have further strained the organization’s ability to function effectively.
Scandals and Mismanagement
Posta Kenya has also faced significant scandals, including the revelation that nearly 300 employees had falsified their academic qualifications. Many of these individuals are reportedly connected to high-ranking officials. While some terminations followed the exposé, insiders claim that key figures within the Human Resources department continue to shield others involved in the scam, creating further unrest within the organization.
Regional Restructuring Issues
The institution’s attempts at regional restructuring have also caused discontent among employees. Decisions such as establishing a new mega-region with headquarters in Nyeri—despite the availability of a larger rent-free facility in Meru—have raised questions about the management’s priorities. Staff in affected regions, including Kisumu and Kakamega, have expressed dissatisfaction over the merging of their regions, further adding to the instability.
A Call for Solutions
The tragic death of Festus Kipkoech Bore underscores the urgent need for Posta Kenya to address its internal challenges and prioritize employee welfare. As calls for meaningful reforms grow louder, it remains to be seen whether the institution’s leadership will take the necessary steps to restore stability and trust within the organization.
For now, insiders suggest that meaningful change is unlikely in the short term, leaving employees to navigate an uncertain and challenging work environment.