The private security guard who was fired for allowing protesters inside Java House Kimathi Street on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, has been reinstated and awarded the highest commendation and recognition for a Private Security Officer in Kenya for his bravery and unwavering commitment to duty.
Vincent Chepkwony, a guard with Hatari Security Company became well known after his act of shielding the Gen Z who were protesting against the Finance Bill 2024.
The Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) yesterday announced the immediate reinstatement of Chepkwony, saying he had demonstrated exceptional bravery during the recent incident.
“Chepkwony’s actions, which involved shielding members of the public from harm, exemplify the dedication, selfless patriotism and courage exhibited by security personnel in safeguarding life and property,” PSRA Director General, fazul Mahammed said.
Mahammed said following public concerns over his dismissal, the PSRA convened a consultative meeting yesterday attended by the security firm’s Managing Director Stephen Mwangi which aimed to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding his termination and seek a fair resolution.
“After a comprehensive review, the Authority firmly concluded that Chepkwony’s actions were heroic, patriotic and commendable and therefore warranted a promotion and not a dismissal from duty,” he said.
He added: “Consequently, the Authority directed Hatari Security Limited to reinstate Vincent Chepkwony to his role as a security guard with immediate effect.”
Mahammed said this decision underscores the critical role security guards play in maintaining public safety and protecting property. PSRA remains committed to upholding the welfare and dignity of security officers, as outlined in Section 9 (1) of the Private Security Regulation Act No. 13 of 2016.
“Chepkwony has subsequently been awarded the highest commendation and recognition for a Private Security Officer in Kenya for his bravery and unwavering commitment to duty. His reinstatement stands as a testament to the core values that uphold the private security industry in Kenya,” he added.
Earlier, Hatari Security had dismissed reports that the guard had been dismissed. Elisha Kirui, a controller from the company, said he had been moved to another assignment.
The security company also released a press statement, saying Chepkwony’s contract had not been terminated.
“We Hatari Security Services are seized by a claim about one of our employees, a security guard named Vincent, assigned to one of our customers. The claim is that his services have been terminated,” the security company said.
“We wish to set the record straight by confirming that he is still an employee of Hatari Security Group and we always stand by any reasonable actions and contractual obligations. Any reassignments are done in consultation with our employees per our internal policies and procedures and employment and labor.”