Workers at Powerstar Express branch along Canopy in Zimmerman have raised concerns over their working conditions, with Nyakundi Report highlighting allegations of long working hours, salary deductions, lack of proper employment documents and sexual harassment claims at the branch.
A staff member who spoke anonymously over fear of retaliation said several workers are unhappy with what they describe as a difficult working environment.
The employee claimed that some of the practices at the branch do not match the terms contained in their employment contracts.
According to the complaint, workers were contracted to work for eight hours a day but are allegedly required to work for up to 12 hours a day for six days each week.
This arrangement reportedly leaves employees with only one day off.
The worker also claimed that attempts by employees to raise concerns about working hours, leave and payment for additional hours have not received a satisfactory response.
According to the complaint, some workers feel that management becomes difficult when they ask questions about their rights or seek clarification on their working arrangements.
Another serious issue raised by the workers concerns allegations of sexual harassment involving a senior official at the branch.
The complainant claimed that complaints had been made but that meaningful disciplinary action had not followed.
Sexual harassment complaints are serious workplace matters and should be handled through established procedures that allow employees to report concerns without fear of retaliation.
Workers who raise such complaints should also be given an opportunity to have their concerns properly investigated.
The employees have also questioned salary deductions allegedly made through the stocks representative team.
The complainant claimed that workers are shown a book containing proposed deductions and are allowed to discuss the amounts, but the deductions are allegedly approved without the affected employees giving their consent.
According to the worker, some of the deductions can reach KSh10,000. The employees are seeking a clear explanation of how such deductions are calculated, who authorises them and whether workers are given a proper opportunity to challenge them before the amounts are removed from their salaries.
The workers have further raised concerns about salary documentation.
They claim that they do not consistently receive payslips or P9 forms. Without these documents, employees may find it difficult to confirm their gross salary, deductions, statutory contributions and tax information.
The workers are asking management to provide proper records showing how their salaries are calculated and what deductions are made each month.
There are also questions surrounding a Britam policy that workers say they were enrolled in. The complainant claimed that employees were taken to Britam and enrolled into an insurance or related policy without receiving enough information beforehand.
The workers want management to explain the nature of the policy, who approved it, how premiums are being paid and whether any amount is being deducted from their salaries.
The conduct of some members of the management team has also come under criticism. The complainant specifically mentioned a stocks representative identified as Mr. Jared, accusing him of being rude and dismissive when employees raise concerns.
The worker also claimed that disagreements among staff have increased, with employees feeling that internal conflicts are not being properly addressed.
The allegations remain claims that require verification.
An independent investigation would be necessary to establish whether the reported practices are taking place and whether they breach employment agreements or labour regulations.
The workers are calling for management to address their concerns and provide clear answers on working hours, overtime, leave, salary deductions, payslips, P9 forms, the Britam policy and the sexual harassment allegations.
They are also seeking a working environment where employees can raise legitimate concerns without fear and where employment terms are clearly communicated and respected.
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