Title:
A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF THE FACTORS FUELING INDUSTRIAL UNREST IN THE KENYAN PUBLIC SERVICE

Authors:
Rael Wahu Gichara

Volume:1 Issue: 10

Abstract:
The public sector in Kenya has experienced a surge in industrial disputes as manifested by frequent strike action by public servants. The reasons underlying this labour unrest remains to be conclusively determined. However, the current constitutional dispensation that fortifies the rights of the Kenyan worker and trade unionism play a critical role in fanning labour unrest. Upward review of salaries appears to be the main reason for strike action in the public sector in Kenya. However, the need for improved salaries by public servants should not be viewed in isolation. Rather, it should be considered as a reflection of inflationary pressures as indicated by declining purchasing power of the Kenyan public servant. The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) is a viable approach to streamline public sector earnings and align them to the economic realities in the country and thus effectively address the main driver of labour unrest in the public service. SRC has a significant role to play in addressing industrial unrest in Kenya. This notwithstanding, the Kenyan government needs to address other contentious issues pertaining to labour relations promptly through effective communication to forestall industrial action in the public service

Citation:

[Gichara, Rael Wahu. "A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF THE FACTORS FUELING INDUSTRIAL UNREST IN THE KENYAN PUBLIC SERVICE." IJAH, vol. 1, no. 10, 2017, pp. 939-947. November.]