"Chebochok's Leadership Risks Kenyan Tea Industry's Global Standing and Women's Welfare"

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has vehemently protested the controversial election of John Chebochok as Director of Toror Tea Factory, managed by the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA). In a statement released on Wednesday, LSK expressed deep concern over Chebochok's appointment, citing his alleged involvement in sexual exploitation cases at a James Finlay Limited factory in Kericho. The allegations surfaced in a 2023 BBC exposé titled 'Sex for Work: The True Cost of Our Tea', which purportedly showed Chebochok engaging in exploitative behavior towards female workers in exchange for employment opportunities.

KTDA, however, distanced itself from Chebochok's election, clarifying that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) oversaw the process independently. Despite public outcry, KTDA emphasized that it played no role in his appointment. LSK raised questions regarding the eligibility criteria and vetting process that allowed Chebochok to contest despite serious allegations against him.

They argued that his ascension to a leadership position undermines efforts to protect women's rights within the tea industry and could perpetuate a culture of impunity. "Allowing Mr. Chebochok to assume a leadership role not only jeopardizes the welfare of female workers but also tarnishes the reputation of the Kenyan tea industry on the global stage," stated LSK in their demand for Chebochok's immediate resignation. They called upon IEBC to review its procedures to prevent individuals with questionable ethical standards from holding leadership positions under Chapter 6 of the Constitution. Furthermore, LSK urged KTDA to implement stringent policies to safeguard workers from sexual harassment and exploitation, emphasizing transparency in addressing concerns over Chebochok's appointment.

The controversy has garnered international attention, with James Finlay Limited and Lipton Teas and Infusions joining the call for Chebochok's removal. In a letter to KTDA officials, James Finlay Limited emphasized the gravity of the allegations despite no formal charges, urging swift action to protect the integrity of the Toror Tea Factory and its workforce. They have ceased purchasing tea from the factory and urged stakeholders to follow suit until Chebochok steps down.

Meanwhile, Chebochok has retaliated by demanding a Ksh.100 million defamation settlement from the BBC, denying the allegations as politically motivated. His lawyer, Danstan Omari, asserted that rival politicians and competitors in the tea sector orchestrated the accusations to undermine Chebochok's reputation and political ambitions.