Police in go-slow, demand pay rise

By Cyrus Ombati

Police have quietly joined striking government officials in demanding for salary increment.

Some junior officers have been jamming their communication gadgets in Nairobi and Mombasa paralysing operations.

Others especially those in the traffic department have been creating intentional snarl ups on the roads as part of the silent go-slow in Nairobi.

Insiders say those on the go-slow usually take their time to respond to incidents like traffic and crimes.

“The problem is spreading all over. It is a major issue because even those in the Coast have joined and are demanding action,” said a senior officer who asked not to be named.

This is the second time in two months that the officers are disrupting communication systems over failed pay increase.

They want the government to honour a pledge it made in 2007 to increase their salaries in phases.

President Kibaki told the officers on Wednesday the government is committed to improving the quality of their lives.

“Besides modernized training, I wish to assure Kenyas that the Government is committed to improving the quality of their lives,” said the President.

Kibaki added the government will continue to address the welfare of the police including providing decent housing, improving terms and conditions of the service as well as proving the tools and equipment required for effective service delivery.

He seemed to be responding to the discontent that is brewing within the force over pay.

The pay rise has been pending since 2007 when recommendations were
made by the defunct Permanent Public Service Remuneration Review.

The pay for the least paid officer was raised from Sh18,155 to Sh34,000
per month, including allowances, if this year's installment
is implemented in line with recommendations of the Justice Ransley
commission on police reforms.