KANU party leader Gideon Moi has urged the government to increase the minimum wage for Kenyan employees.
Gideon, as he wished Kenyans a happy Labor Day on Monday, said many Kenyan workers are struggling to make ends meet due to low wages and poor working conditions.
He said it is up to the incumbent regime to prioritize policies that promote dignified and fair working conditions.
"To realize this, it should increase the minimum wage to a living wage that reflects the current cost of living," he said.
Gideon said the government should also enforce labour laws and regulations for employers to provide safe and healthy working environments for their employees.
He went ahead to celebrate all Kenyan workers who have tirelessly contributed to the growth and development of the nation.
"Despite the numerous labour challenges that they grapple with, Kenyan workers across all sectors have sustained this economy through toil, hard work, and resilience," Gideon said.
He said Kenya ought to work towards ensuring that all workers are treated with dignity and respect and that their labour is valued and compensated fairly.
During last year's Labour Day celebrations, former President Uhuru Kenyatta increased the minimum wage by up to 12 per cent.
Before the increase, the lowest-paid worker earned Sh13,500.
After the 12 per cent increase, the minimum wage rose to Sh15,120, an increase of Sh1,620.
Uhuru said there was an increase in the cost of living and inflation at the time was also high.
“As a caring government, we find there is a compelling case to review the minimum wages so as to cushion workers against further erosion of their purchasing power while also guaranteeing competitiveness of our economy,” he said
“I declare an increase of minimum wage by 12 percentage points with effect from 1 May 2022.”
