Over 600 Trans Nzoia Casual Workers Protest Job Terminations
By Christine Opanda
September 19, 2024
Over 600 casual workers in Trans Nzoia County staged protests at the county headquarters following the termination of their contracts, which they say was done without following legal procedures.
The affected workers, some of whom have served the county for over 20 years, claimed that the terminations spanned all sectors of the county government. They alleged that the administration, led by Governor George Natembeya, intends to replace them with personnel from a private cleaning company set to take over services in the Health Department.
Because the Trans Nzoia County Government wants to replace us with private Health cleaners, we will not accept, one worker said, highlighting fears of losing long-term employment.
The workers further stated that they received no official termination letters and were instead dismissed verbally. They have blamed the Governor and the Chief Officer of Health for the abrupt dismissals.
The protestors are demanding reinstatement to their workstations with permanent and pensionable terms. Additionally, the workers’ union chair, Samwel Kiboi, announced plans to initiate impeachment proceedings against the county secretary, citing interference with the smooth running of public services.
All eyes are now on Governor Natembeya, who during his campaign had promised equity in county employment and transparent development initiatives for Trans Nzoia residents.