Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Kenya has condemned constant harassment and discrimination of female officers within the police force when it comes to promotions and other related benefits.
Assistant Secretary General of COTU (K) Ernest Nadome said many female officers are forced into sexual advances by their seniors before they are promoted to higher ranks.
He was speaking during a meeting at Tom Mboya Labour College aimed at fast tracking the formation of national police union. Nadome who is also the Secretary General of KETAWU said the formation of the union will address issues of sexual harassment of female officers by their seniors.
“Sexual harassment and intimidation of female workers is very serious and we must give it more attention urgently,” he said.
Nadome said there is nothing wrong in the proposed formation in the union since it has proved very effective in countries such as Norway and South Africa.
He added the union will look into terms of service, promotions and general welfare of the officers noting that many officers die while on duty and are exposed to risks while at work.
“These are some of the crucial issues that the proposed union will be looking into,” Nadome said, adding that many officers are forced to engage into graft due to poor pay and unattractive terms of service.
He reiterated that many times police officers work without over time or shifts hence making them fatigued at the end of the day while they also enjoy medical cover.