Security guards have threatened to go on strike if employers will not raise their minimum wage to Sh30,000 by January.
A legal notice by the Private Security Regulatory Authority in November made it mandatory for employers of the close to 1 million guards, to pay the minimum gazetted wage.
The guards, through the Kenya National Private Security Workers Union, say employers have refused to honour the legal notice.
Secretary general Isaac Andabwa said the continued failure to honour the legal notice will force them to issue a 21-day strike notice.
"Why should security workers continue to be underpaid with this high cost of living? Does it mean they are lesser human beings?"Andabwa asked.
He spoke after handing over their petition on the matter to the National Assembly.
The guards want Administration and Internal Security Committee chaired Gabriel Tongoyo and the Delegated Legislation Committee chaired by Samuel Chepkonga to look into the matter.
Andabwa said security guards play a pivotal role in the security sector yet they are grossly overworked and underpaid.
He also accused security companies of neglecting the provision of necessary protective equipment for their guards in an attempt to maximise profits.
"Private security guards are the backborne of safety in various sectors of our economy including, residential complexes, commercial establishments, educational institutions and public spaces. They are responsible for deterring criminal activity, conducting regular patrols and responding to emergencies," he said.
