Operations at West Kenya Sugar paralysed after chaos

Operations at the giant private owned West Kenya sugar company in Malava subcounty of Kakamega have been halted for the third day, and this continue to disrupt cane harvesting and lifting,delaying payments to farmers and compromising the quality of cane harvested.

The company’s group head of of external affairs and communication George Muruli has expressed displeasure with the conduct of union officials in the manner in which they are handling the workers’ strike by employing hooliganism instead of following the laid down legal procedures even as there was a meeting convened with the same officials lead by Jeremiah Akhobya and ministry of labor officials and the factory management to address the issues presented.

A mutual agreement was arrived at that allowed employees to resume work while discussions with the union continued.

But Wednesday witnessed a turn of events when the same unions officials incited employees forcibly entering the companies premises by breaking the factory gate. They proceeded to disrupt operations by evicting employees who had voluntarily reported to work.

The disturbances were extended to employees’ residences, and this resulted in a chaotic environment.

In the altercations, left the general manager one Mr. Manoj manhandled with the company’s human resource manager, Mr. Duncan Abwao sustained serious injuries.

Abwao has since been hospitalised receiving necessary medical attention.

A meeting chaired by the Kakamega county commissioner Meru Mwangi concluded that the disruption was illegal and unprotected.

Instead, the union was advised to pursue legal channels, and they are therefore expected to adhere to the guidance.

Muruli in his communication even as he noted unwarranted disruption by unknown well mobilised individuals who blocked access to the factory as early as 6 am morning today,resulting into complete cessation of operation for the third day has urged all employees to return to work promptly.

He went ahead to appeal to the union and all parties involved to engage in a dialogue through appropriate channels to resolve the matter amicably.

“The welfare of our employees and the continued operation of West Kenya is our utmost priority.we remain committed to addressing any grievances through the proper procedures and fostering a cooperative work environment.” He added.