The Communication Workers Union of Kenya(CWUK)has dismissed the circular that purported to curtail the review and setting of state and public officers’ salary and remuneration and instead wants it revoked.
The General Secretary of the union, Benson Okwaro said the circular dated 25th may 2011 failed a consultation test and termed the move as unconstitutional.
“the new constitution differentiates between a state officer and a public officer as it pertains to the functions of the commission. It clearly states that the commission will advise on renumeration and benefits of the public officer and not to determine them” said Okwaro.
“We wonder what prompted the permanent Secretary to issue such a circular without first consulting experts and other stakeholders”Added Okwaro
Okwaro further termed the circular as both retrospective and untenable as it had violated the rights to forming, joining and participating in activities and trade union programmes .At the same time he vowed to continue championing for workers rights.
“We shall continue to champion the interests of our members including better salaries and benefits”.said the union General secretary.
Moreover he said that Rights of collective bargaining are enshrined in the constitution and no employer can deny the workers their rights.
The move to snub the circular comes in a few days after the Central Organisation for Trade Unions (COTU) ignored the circular.
The union now wants the PS to consider the impacts of the review as they consider revoking.
Meanwhile the union expressed its agreement with COTU vowing to give reinforcement to the organisation when it acts.
Conrad Onyango
