Respect workers' rights, union tells employers over house levy

Brown Ashira, Secretary General Kenya Environmental Health and Public health Practitioners Union. [Samson Wire, Standard]

The Kenya Environmental Health and Public Practitioners union has asked employers to respect workers' rights and suspend deduction of the house levy as ordered by the court.

Led by Secretary General Brian Ashira the union hailed the Appeals Court decision to suspend the implementation of the tax terming it oppressive to Kenyan workforce.

Ashira said it was unfortunate that the government was pushing for the implementation of the said tax in the wake of the escalating costs burdening the Kenyan workforce without proper consultation from the people who are involved.

The SG said the persistent outcry from health workers highlights their deep understanding of the challenges they face daily creating a stark contrast to the disconnect experienced by those in positions of power who have pledged to protect and uplift the citizens.

"The resounding ruling by the court of appeal against the implementation of the housing levy is a victory for all healthcare workers especially Public Health Officers who are grappling with hard economic times," said Ashira.

He added, "In solidarity with other trade unions, Kenya Environmental Health and Public Health Practitioners Union calls for the respect of workers' rights by employers and strongly advises all employers in the private sector, county and national government to take necessary measures to cushion all workers against the harsh economic times."

Ashira said the union remains committed to advocating for the rights of its members while emphasising the importance of fair and just policies that uplift the Kenyan workforce and society at large

According to him, the union will push for a refund of all the money that had been deducted before the court pronounced itself on the matter.