Employers warn over rising insecurity

By MACHARIA KAMAU

NAIROBI; KENYA: Employers have warned over rising insecurity and social instability in the country.

They say there is little goodwill from politicians in ensuring security is maintained.

Through their lobby, Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE), the employers said gains made in economic development so far could be reversed if cases of attacks go on unchecked.

Erastus Mwongera ,chairman FKE, also said that in addition to the increased insecurity that has been evident in attacks in different parts of the country, the political noise in the run up to the March elections had made matters worse.  He said there is little political goodwill in increasing security, with campaigns taking centre-stage and issues of national security relegated to the back seat.

“Given the campaign mood has engulfed the nation, we, as employers and investors in this economy, are concerned about the increasing level of insecurity being experienced in various parts of this country. We risk reversing the gains made so far in our economic development,” he said.

“The suggestion seems to be that the elections are more important than disarming criminal elements in our society... if this level of insecurity is allowed to go up to March 4 next year, then we can for sure see the loss of more lives of innocent Kenyans and loss of livelihoods.”

There have been several attacks in major cities mostly Nairobi and Mombasa where explosive devices have been thrown at high human traffic areas, wounding and killing civilians and police. There have also been bloody violence in Tana Delta and Garissa as well as the Baragoi where over 40 police officers were killed.

“The forthcoming elections will determine the kind of leaders we get and business climate that businesses are subjected to... we are calling upon the electorate to give this country leaders who are concerned with the welfare of the people and capable of protecting life, dignity and wealth of this great nation,” said Mwongera.

Mwongera was speaking yesterday during a press briefing. He also voiced concern over the recent appointment of Patrick Omutia as director general of the National Industrial Training Authority. He said the right procedures were not followed in appointing him.