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The Kenya National Private Security Workers’ Union (KNPSWU) Shop Stewards have issued a strong statement in response to recent claims by the Ministry of Interior and the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU-K) concerning the private security sector.
The statement aims to clarify misleading financial figures and address pressing issues affecting the welfare of private security officers in Kenya.
Clarification on Membership and Contributions
The union addressed the ministry’s allegation that COTU(K) benefits from Ksh. 1.63 billion attributed to private security workers. KNPSWU emphasized that this figure is grossly inaccurate and misleading. With about 1.3 million private security workers in Kenya, not all are members of KNPSWU or COTU(K). Furthermore, the union’s contributions to COTU(K) do not exceed Ksh. 1.2 million, fluctuating based on membership activities.
Concerns Over Ministry’s Claims
The union expressed serious concerns over the ministry’s figures, calling for transparency and accuracy to prevent misinformation and instability in the sector. Numerous complaints from employers and employees have surfaced due to these misleading statements.
Meeting Resolutions
KNPSWU shop stewards met at Under The Radar Hotel in Nairobi and resolved several critical issues:
Sector Safety and Stability
- The union described the exchanges between COTU(K) and the Ministry of Interior as hazardous. The KNPSWU National General Secretary, Dr. Isaac GM Andabwa (OGW), was urged to stay focused on advocating for the rights and welfare of guards.
- Questioning Mandatory DeductionsKNPSWU questioned the mandatory Ksh. 8,000 deductions per guard for training and guard force numbers, citing a lack of public participation and transparency regarding the funds’ management and usage.
Call for Harmonization of Government Directives
Opposition to Casualization of Workers
- The union strongly opposed the casualization of workers, arguing that it demoralizes employees and undermines stability in the sector.The union called on the government to align directives from the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Interior to avoid contradictory policies impacting the private security industry.
Strike Notice
The union warned that if the government does not enforce a minimum pay of Ksh. 30,000 for guards starting in Nairobi County and continues to push for contractual employment, the General Secretary is prepared to issue a 21-day strike notice.
Voices from the Meeting
Dr. Moses Mwangi, a renowned medic with over 30 years of experience, supported the government’s move to secure essential vaccines, underscoring the critical role they play in preventing life-threatening diseases and ensuring public health. He called on the government to ensure an uninterrupted supply of vaccines, emphasizing the need for efficient logistics to reach even the most remote areas.
Environmental Concerns
Charles Kimani, founder and CEO of Jamii Products, highlighted the environmental impact of plastic waste, urging the approval of the 10 percent levy on plastics to encourage better waste management practices. He criticized the lack of commitment from plastic manufacturing companies towards recycling and maintaining a sustainable environment.
The KNPSWU remains committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of private security workers in Kenya. The union calls for immediate action to address their concerns and ensure fair treatment and stability within the sector. As the dialogue continues, the union stands ready to take further action if necessary to protect its members’ interests.
