Private security guards demand government action over abuse, neglect by employers
The Kenya National Private Security Workers Union said the killing of a guard stationed at Stima Plaza during the June 25 protests exposed the risks guards face daily, yet employers continue to disregard their welfare and rights.
Private security workers have demanded urgent government intervention to curb alleged mistreatment and rights violations by security companies, accusing employers of neglecting guards even in death.
The Kenya National Private Security Workers Union (KNPSWU) said the killing of a guard stationed at Stima Plaza during the June 25 protests exposed the risks guards face daily, yet employers continue to disregard their welfare and rights.
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KNPSWU national organising secretary Joash Soita cited the death of Fred Wanyonyi Wanjala, who was shot dead while on duty at Stima Plaza, as proof of the dangerous conditions guards work under without adequate support. He accused most private security firms of mistreating, neglecting, and disrespecting guards, including in cases where workers lose their lives in the line of duty.
Soita warned that the union would no longer tolerate the companies’ refusal to cooperate with the union, recognise its role, or honour legally signed check-off forms.
“Any employer who chooses to frustrate union efforts, undermine constitutional freedoms, or violate the rights of security workers must now prepare for relentless industrial and legal action,” Soita said.
He said the union would pursue every lawful avenue, including demonstrations, lawsuits and nationwide campaigns until justice is achieved.
“The war for dignity, rights, and justice has officially begun. We will not retreat. We will not surrender. This is a fight for respect, protection, and empowerment of the private security workforce in this country,” Soita added.
He challenged employers to appreciate the sacrifices made by thousands of guards who risk their lives daily in service and called upon all stakeholders, including government agencies, human rights organisations and the media, to support the union’s cause.
Last week, union officials, accompanied by Wanyonyi’s relatives, met with representatives of Hatari Security Services, Wanyonyi’s employer, who agreed to settle his terminal dues and honour insurance compensation.
The agreement came after accusations that the firm had neglected and mistreated its workers, underpaid them and subjected them to long working hours without proper compensation.
Wanyonyi, was shot at the Kolobot Road entrance of the building at around 4:30pm. He was rushed to Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Kenya Power regretted the incident, saying it was cooperating with investigative agencies to establish the circumstances under which the shooting occurred.
Meanwhile, the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) has been urged to crack down on companies violating regulations and failing to prioritise workers’ welfare.
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