CS Mutua requests aviation workers to call off planned JKIA strike
Business
By
Sharon Wanga
| Aug 15, 2024
Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has appealed to the Kenya Aviation Workers Union(KAWU) to consider calling off their planned strike.
The union, representing airport workers, had issued a seven-day strike notice against a proposed agreement with India's Adani Airport Holdings.
To avert the looming strike, CS Mutua on Thursday held a crucial meeting with KAWU officials, led by Secretary-General Moses Ndiema, seeking to find common ground with the aviation workers.
"After listening to the union officials, it is clear they have genuine concerns," said Mutua.
"However, it is regrettable that there seems to have been a communication breakdown, leading to misunderstandings. Workers at JKIA are understandably concerned about their job security, and any agreement under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) should aim to enhance job opportunities rather than diminish them," he added.
READ MORE
Government should address issues raised by young people without resorting to intimidation
Subaru driver in a dramatic high-speed chase after alleged hit-and-run in Nairobi
Bottled water exempted from excise duty
Kenya out to increase its participation at LA28
Initiative to upskill youth in construction sector launched
Cyril Maloba: The math teacher who refused to stop
Knec call for KCSE candidates as curtain falls on 8-4-4 education system
'A criminal act of the State,' Orengo says of Lichuma torture claims
From Kenya to Zambia: Kenyan firm wins role in school meals overhaul
'Mr Speaker Sir' freed on Sh100,000 bond in Sh41m Parliament damage case
The union had planned to begin the strike on Monday, August 19th.
CS Mutua has asked aviation workers to pursue dialogue as an alternative to dispute resolution.
Meanwhile, KAWU Secretary-General Ndiema acknowledged that the CS's request to suspend the strike was reasonable saying, "We will consult our members on the issue of suspending the strike and communicate their decision by Friday."
Mutua further urged unions in the country to avoid making strike action their first option in disputes, emphasizing that many Cabinet Secretaries are still familiarizing themselves with their new roles following recent changes in the government.
He also vowed to mediate between the workers, the Ministry of Transport, the Kenya Airports Authority, and Kenya Airways to address the issues raised by the union.