“The salaries earned by Kenyan workers are their property,” says Dr. Kinity.

In a bold move against what they deem as unconstitutional deductions from their hard-earned salaries, Kenyan workers are rallying behind a call for nationwide industrial action set for July 7, 2024. The catalyst for this unprecedented demonstration of solidarity is the controversial Affordable Housing Tax, which has sparked outrage across the country.

Dr. Isaac Newton Kinity, the esteemed former Secretary General of the Kenya Civil Servants Union, has emerged as a prominent voice in this struggle for workers’ rights. In a passionate plea to representatives of all workers in Kenya, Dr. Kinity denounced the government’s actions as illegal and called for unified action to rectify the situation.

“The salaries earned by Kenyan workers are their property,” Dr. Kinity asserted, citing the country’s constitution to support his argument. “The government has no authority to forcefully deduct money without the consent of the workers. This is a violation of both national and international labor laws.”

Dr. Kinity’s impassioned letter, addressed to all representatives of Kenyan workers, has galvanized support for the impending strike. He emphasized the need for workers’ representatives to stand firm against unjust practices and defend the rights of over 20 million workers in Kenya.

“It is imperative that we, as representatives of the workers, take a stand against these unlawful deductions,” Dr. Kinity implored. “If the government does not heed our demands to scrap the Affordable Housing Tax and refund the deducted amounts, we must be prepared to take decisive action.”

The looming strike threatens to disrupt various sectors of the Kenyan economy, sending a clear message to the government that the rights of workers cannot be trampled upon with impunity. As preparations intensify in the lead-up to July 7th, tensions are mounting, and the nation waits with bated breath to see how this pivotal moment in Kenya’s labor history will unfold.

With the stage set for a showdown between the government and the workforce, the outcome of this struggle promises to shape the future landscape of labor relations in Kenya.

As Kenya’s workers gear up for a historic strike on July 7, 2024, in protest against illegal salary deductions, the call to action resounds loud and clear: stand in solidarity with the workers in their fight for justice.

It is incumbent upon every citizen, every organization, and every advocate for fairness and equality to lend their voice and support to this crucial cause. Whether you are a worker yourself, a member of a union, or simply a concerned individual, now is the time to take a stand against the infringement of workers’ rights.

Dr. Isaac Newton Kinity, the esteemed former Secretary General of the Kenya Civil Servants Union. |Photo Curtesy

Spread awareness about the injustices faced by Kenyan workers due to the illegal Affordable Housing Tax deductions. Share information about the upcoming strike and the reasons behind it with your friends, family, and colleagues. Use social media platforms, community gatherings, and other channels to amplify the workers’ message and demand accountability from the government.

Reach out to your local representatives and urge them to advocate for the rights of workers in Kenya. Pressure government officials to engage in meaningful dialogue with workers’ representatives and to address their grievances in a fair and transparent manner. Let your elected leaders know that you stand with the workers and expect them to uphold the principles of justice and respect for labor rights.

Donate your time, resources, or expertise to support the organizing efforts of workers and their representatives leading up to the strike. Offer assistance with logistical planning, legal support, or any other form of assistance that may be needed to ensure the success of this pivotal moment in Kenya’s labor history.

By standing together in solidarity with Kenya’s workers, we can send a powerful message that the rights of workers must be respected and protected. Let us join hands in defense of justice, equality, and dignity for all.