Kenya Airport Workers Refuse Return to Work Amid Detention of Union Leaders. Striking employees demand unconditional release of leaders, citing legal right to industrial action.
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (Kawu) has declared that its members will not return to work until detained leaders are released unconditionally, following a standoff that paralyzed Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Wednesday.
Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) Secretary General Francis Atwoli defended the strike as a lawful action, stating workers have the right to industrial action when grievances remain unaddressed. He criticized Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia for labeling the strike illegal and arresting union leaders, noting authorities were informed of the planned action.
Atwoli called for transparency in the proposed merger between Kenya Airways and JKIA, urging investigative bodies to examine potential corruption. "If the merger is legitimate, documentation should be made public. If not, independent agencies must investigate," he said.
Kawu Secretary-General Moses Ndiema and other leaders were arrested during the strike, which led to a court-ordered suspension of labor disputes. Employment and Labour Relation Court Judge Onesmus Makau halted proceedings to allow a government-appointed committee to mediate, extending the strike ban until a resolution is reached.
The union vowed to protest at the court where detained leaders will face charges on Friday, emphasizing their commitment to resolving the conflict through legal channels.
