Dock workers threaten ‘mother of all strikes’ over CBA delays

The Dock Workers Union has issued a strike notice which could paralyse operations across all ports in the country./KNA

Dock workers have issued a strike notice over alleged interference in union affairs by a senior officer at the Kenya Ports Authority, accusing the official of derailing the implementation of their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Dock Workers Union General Secretary Simon Sang said the union has credible information that a senior KPA officer, who allegedly wields significant influence within the Judiciary, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, and the Public Service Commission, is being used by competitors to destabilise the union.

“This malpractice is affecting the morale of our members, and we will not tolerate it any further. The unjustified delays we are experiencing in the processing of our Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) 2024–2027 are a clear indication of the influence this officer has at the SRC,” Sang said.

“We have warned the SRC and the said officer to stop this malpractice and operate professionally. These actions risk painting a very negative picture of the Judiciary, SRC, KPA and the government,” he added.

Sang further noted that members of the union have exercised patience while waiting for the implementation of the bargaining agreement, which was presented two years ago.

“If we do not receive our CBA by the end of March 2026, we will have no choice but to call the mother of all strikes,” Sang declared.

He added that KPA has remained peaceful and free of industrial action since 2016, as the union opted for dialogue to resolve key issues affecting workers. However, he said they are now counting down the days to stage a strike if their concerns are not addressed by management.