Dr. Alfred Mutua, the Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection, has called for patience from unions amid rising tensions and threats of industrial action. Speaking on Friday, Dr. Mutua emphasized the government’s commitment to resolving outstanding issues through dialogue and mutual understanding, urging unions to allow newly appointed ministers the time needed to address their concerns effectively.
Dr. Mutua’s call comes in response to increasing unrest among various unions, including those representing teachers and university academic staff. He acknowledged the significance of the unions’ concerns and reassured leaders that his ministry is actively engaged in discussions with key stakeholders. “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.
The Cabinet Secretary has 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), acknowledging that these conversations are critical to finding a resolution. “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,” he noted.
In addition to the issues within the education sector, Dr. Mutua highlighted ongoing negotiations between the Ministry of Education and the University Academic Staff Union (UASU). He assured that his ministry is closely monitoring these discussions to ensure they progress smoothly. “Our team in the Ministry is already overseeing negotiations, and they will update me in a few days,” he said.
Dr. Mutua expressed concern over the potential impact of strikes and other forms of industrial action. He urged unions to consider such measures only as a last resort, after all other avenues for resolution have been exhausted. “Go-slows and strikes should be the last resort after all else has failed,” he advised, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue and collaboration.
To address potential industrial disputes proactively, the Ministry of Labour is introducing an early warning system. This initiative aims to identify and address potential conflicts before they escalate into major disputes. Dr. Mutua highlighted the importance of this system in maintaining industrial harmony and preventing future unrest. “My Ministry, as a neutral mediator, is committed to encouraging open dialogue and genuine commitments from everyone involved,” he explained.
In his broader message, Dr. Mutua reassured unions of the new government’s commitment to servant leadership under President William Ruto. He emphasized that the primary role of the government is to listen to and act on the will of the people, reflecting the essence of democracy and the expectations of Kenyans. “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 as a means of working towards pragmatic solutions. “I believe they are patriotic and forward-thinking and therefore urge them to embrace dialogue,” he concluded.
The Cabinet Secretary’s call for patience and his emphasis on dialogue and early intervention reflect a broader effort by the government to maintain stability and address pressing issues through constructive engagement. As the Ministry of Labour continues to work with unions and other stakeholders, the hope is that these efforts will lead to meaningful resolutions and prevent disruptive industrial actions.
