Employers in Kenya have pushed back against calls to increase workers’ salaries, even as the cost of living continues to rise.
This follows fresh demands by the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), which wants the government to raise the minimum wage after the recent fuel price increase.
In an address, COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli noted that many workers have been suffering, and need a salary hike to cushion themselves from the cost of living increase. This was followed by assurances that discussions will be held between the unions and the government before the upcoming Labour Day.
However, this demand was rebuffed by employers who claimed that everything is not that easy.
In an interview, FKE Executive Director Jacqueline Mugo pointed out that most firms are facing tough times, especially after the fuel price increase.
According to her, if the employers were to heed to the request to increase workers’ salaries, they would end up increasing the price of products and services sold in the market.
The employers are now seeking discussions that can unite everyone in such a way that whatever decision is made should not negatively affect both business and employees.
This discussion is happening at a time when most firms are under pressure, and some are even reducing hiring.
It has been reported that many Kenyans are shunning formal employment and engaging in informal employment or self-employment to make ends meet.
