The Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection, Dr Alfred Mutua, has called on unions to exercise patience and allow newly appointed ministers time to address their concerns.
Speaking on Friday, Dr. Mutua emphasized the government’s commitment to resolving issues through dialogue and mutual understanding.
“I urge the unions to allow a little time for the new Ministers to review these issues and engage with them promptly,” Dr Mutua stated.
He assured union leaders that he had been in discussions with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), and the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET).
“I am aware that the Ministry of Education and TSC are actively holding internal consultations on the unions’ concerns, and a way forward is forthcoming.”
Dr. Mutua also addressed ongoing negotiations between the Ministry of Education and the University Academic Staff Union (UASU), noting that his ministry is closely monitoring the discussions.
“Our team in the Ministry is already overseeing negotiations, and they will update me in a few days,” he said.
Expressing concern over the threat of strikes, Dr Mutua urged unions to consider industrial action only as a last resort.
“Go-slows and strikes should be the last resort after all else has failed,” he advised.
To prevent future unrest, the Ministry of Labour is introducing an early warning system designed to address potential industrial disputes before they escalate.
“My Ministry, as a neutral mediator, is committed to encouraging open dialogue and genuine commitments from everyone involved,” Dr. Mutua explained.
In a broader context, Dr. Mutua reassured the unions of the new government’s dedication to servant leadership under President William Ruto.
“The newly reconstituted Government is committed to servant leadership, where our primary role is to listen to and act on the will of the people. This is the essence of our democracy, and this is what Kenyans expect,” he said.
Dr. Mutua expressed confidence in the unions’ ability to recognize the current economic, social, and political challenges facing the country.
He urged union leaders to embrace dialogue and work towards pragmatic solutions.
“I believe they are patriotic and forward-thinking and therefore urge them to embrace dialogue,” he concluded.
