Former Pan Paper workers receive Sh74 million dues

Industrialisation PS, Nduati Mwangi (left), and Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka (centre) alongside former Pan Paper employees display a dummy check of Sh 74 million to enable the first phase of former workers to be paid their dues when the miller collapsed. PHOTO | RAPHAEL WANJALA

The National Treasury has released Sh74 million to pay former Pan Paper employees. Speaking while handing over the cheque in Webuye, Industrialisation Principal Secretary Nduati Mwangi said 400 employees of the 1,300 will be paid in the first phase.

 Already funds have been released to the former Receiver Manager, Price WaterHouse Coopers, to pay the ex-staff.

The PS cautioned politicians against using the payments as a campaign tool. "People should now stop their propaganda because we have released money to the former managers who will ensure the money gets to the intended people," he said.

Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka said the payment was a relief and thanked the staff for their patience. "We know you have suffered a long time but we know this relief will be gradual and more people will be paid," said Lusaka.

 He also hit out at Opposition for trying to seek political mileage through using the miller as a propaganda tool.

Ms Violet Muyuka, a former employee was grateful and said: "It has been a long time but we are grateful that it is now here".