The Ministry of Labour has ordered G4S, an integrated security company, to reinstate several employees who were allegedly dismissed unfairly by the private firm.
In a letter addressed to the G4S managing director, the Chief Industrial Relations Officer at the Ministry of Labour, Victoria Webi, on Wednesday, February 19, ordered either the full reinstatement of the affected workers or the payment of all terminal benefits as per the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
The directive followed an application filed by the Kenya National Private Security Workers Union (KNPSWU) led by its Secretary General Isaac Andabwa who challenged the company’s move to dismiss 11 workers.
Following the application, the Ministry of Labour summoned G4S executives on January 14 to explain the reasons behind the layoffs. After the hearing, the ministry overturned the firm's decision.
“After careful consideration of the submissions from the union and the management, coupled with my findings, I do hereby recommend that the complainants be reinstated to work without loss of any benefits,” read part of the letter from the Ministry of Labour.
“Alternatively, the employees should be compensated for the years they have served G4S in line with the parties' Collective Bargaining Agreement,” the letter further stated.
The private security firm was informed that if it was dissatisfied with the decision, it should refer the matter to the Employment and Labour Relations Court.
“In case this is not acceptable to the parties, then either party can refer the matter to the Employment and Labour Relations Court for further guidance,” the ministry directed.
While acknowledging the outcome, the Kenya National Private Security Workers Union expressed its approval of the ruling and pledged to continue fighting for justice, dignity, and fair treatment of security officers.
According to KNPSWU, the outcome reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of private security workers across the country and that no worker should face unfair dismissal.
"After months of uncertainty and struggle, justice has finally prevailed for 11 G4S courier employees who were unfairly dismissed. Through the tireless effort of KNPSWU, and with the intervention of the Ministry of Labour, the affected employees have secured a major victory," the workers' union affirmed.
