The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) is calling for John Chebochok's resignation as director of the Toror Tea Factory due to his questionable background.
In a statement on Wednesday, LSK president Faith Odhiambo indicated that this follows a BBC documentary titled ‘Sex for Work: The True Cost of Our Tea’ which exposed Chebochok’s egregious sexual exploitations in the tea industry, with footage and survivor testimonies leading to his termination from James Finlays Limited and subsequent barring from their properties.
Similarly, she has criticized the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) for clearing him to run for the post.
“We are taken aback by the incurably deficient justification provided by the IEBC CEO, claiming that the presentation of all relevant documents, including a police clearance certificate, was enough to validate Chebochok’s candidacy.”
“The IEBC is mandated by the constitution to perform their duties, including the clearance of candidates in accordance with the constitution, the approach taken by the IEBC that permitted the clearance of Chebochok is therefore constitutionally untenable.”
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Additionally, she said Chebochok’s election undermined efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence within the tea sector.
“It sends a concerning message that individuals with allegations of sexual misconduct can still attain positions of power, thereby potentially perpetuating a culture of impunity and fear among women workers.”
However, Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA), the managing agency of Toror Tea Factory, distanced itself from the election, saying it played no role in the process
“We urge all the relevant authorities to take swift and decisive actions to rectify this situation and prevent future occurrences;” said Odhiambo.
