NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 1 – Regional retailer Nakumatt Holdings’ workers took to the streets across the country protesting over unpaid salaries.
Workers in the retailers’ branches in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Machakos are also alleging mistreatment by their employer.
The workers say that they have been forced to live miserable lives, while others being kicked out of their rented houses for failing to pay rent arrears.
“We are leading an awkward life as a result of no salary payment. We are appealing to the government to step in and resolve the impasse,” Fred Omondi, a Nakumatt employee in Kisumu told Capital FM Business.
They also claim that their employer has failed to remit statutory deductions like NHIF, NSSF and Retirement Benefits.
“We have not been paid for the last six months. We are lying to our wives and kids as we wait for our dues which are not forth coming, “another employee in Machakos said.
The workers proceeded to participate in the protest even after the management of the supermarket chain cautioned them against taking part in what it termed as an illegal strike.
In an internal memo signed by the Company managing director Atul Shah, the workers were warned that any employee who participates in the protest will be subjected to consequences pursuant to the Employment Act.
The retailer is facing cash flow problems that have seen the homegrown supermarket grapple with product shortages.