CS Mutua Orders Immediate 6% Minimum Wage Implementation, Warns Defiant Employers of Closure
Mombasa, Kenya – Labour Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua has ordered the immediate enforcement of the 6% minimum wage increase for all workers across the country.
Speaking Thursday, May 15, during a regional labour conference in Mombasa County, Mutua made it clear: no company will be spared.
“To the employment sector and in particular the private sector,” Mutua began,
“I gazetted the minimum wage of 6 per cent in November last year, and the gazette was not a suggestion or a request.”
Non-Compliance Comes With Heavy Consequences
Mutua didn’t mince his words. He warned companies that refuse to comply will face immediate closure.
“It was a legal directive that people’s wages need to be increased by 6 per cent as per the notice,” the CS declared.
“We will be inspecting companies to ensure that they follow that directive.”
He stressed that the law must be followed, not debated.
Workers Urged to Report Exploitation
“We are here to protect workers. If your salary hasn’t increased as per the 6% law, report it immediately,” he said.
This wage increment, which came into effect in November last year, aims to uplift workers, especially those earning low wages.
Ruto’s Labour Day Directive Behind the Push
Mutua’s tough stance follows a directive by President William Ruto during the Labour Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens.
Ruto had expressed deep concern over employers ignoring the 2023 wage order.
“Last year, we agreed to enhance workers’ pay by 6 per cent,” Ruto reminded the crowd.
“But there was a debate that some employers have not implemented it. It is not right and it is also not acceptable.”
The President then gave a clear order:
“I am directing the ministry to work with the Head of Public Service to ensure every employer implements the minimum 6 per cent wage increase.”
No More Excuses – It’s Action Time
With the president’s order and Mutua’s warning, the government has drawn a clear red line.
Employers have two choices: comply or close down.
Workers now have a reason to hope, and a government that’s ready to defend their rights.
ALSO READ: CS John Mbadi Dismisses Exam Fee Fears: “No Parent Will Pay for KCSE”
CS Mutua Orders Immediate 6% Minimum Wage Implementation, Warns Defiant Employers of Closure
