Private guards push for review of functions of regulatory body

Kenya National Private security workers union secretary general Isaac Andabwa address press on August 18, 2023 at Amazon restaurant in Nairobi. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]

Kenya National Private Security Workers Union (KNPSWU) has challenged the government to review the functions of their regulator, claiming it has failed to address their plight.

The union said the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) has been executing its tasks against the objectives laid down during its launch by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

They said the body has continued to oppress the guards.

KNPSWU chair Isaac Andabwa said the leadership of the body has hampered the development of the sector and their efforts to realise their dream.

"The problems we are facing as a sector have placed us in an awkward position by the leadership of PSRA board led by Fazul Mohamed hampering our efforts to achieve the reform agenda in the security sector," said Andabwa.

Andabwa said that the body has been using its powers to register and award licences to new companies that underpay their workers and defies the law on minimum wage.

He called on the government to review employment terms and ensure everyone is employed on permanent and pensionable terms.

KNPSU Assistant Secretary Aden Kasim said that the guards have led a 'devastating' life as a result of the laxity of PSRA.

Mr Kasim accused the body of allowing employers to employ immigrants at the expense of many unemployed youth.

"I wonder how refugees from neighbouring countries work as guards and the government says the companies should employ our youths. The government should investigate this and take action against those responsible," said the union official.

He also blamed the National Assembly for calling off motions on their reforms, which he claimed, if had been passed would have addressed their plight.

The union threatened to call on members to down their tools if the government fails to address their plight and engage them in developing reforms.

"If they will not respond to our call and address the issue, we appeal to all the branch secretaries and guards across the country to start a strike," said Andabwa.