By Wilfridah Murenga
The Law Society of Kenya has issued a statement demanding the resignation of John Chebochok as the director of Toror Tea Factory, managed by Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) following a BBC documentary aired in February 2023, titled “Sex for Work: The True Cost of Our Tea,” which exposed egregious sexual exploitation practices within the tea industry.
The BBC documentary included undercover footage and survivor testimonies, leading to Mr. Chebochok’s termination from James Finlays Limited and subsequent barring from their properties.
In the statement, LSK has raised concern about the vetting process conducted by IEBC that allowed Chebochok to be cleared for the position despite the serious allegations against him stating that it is crucial for an individual vying for a position that has a history of gender-based violence a proper background check should be conducted.
“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 sufficient to validate Mr. Chebochok’s candidacy. We remind the IEBC of their mandate under Article 88(5) of the Constitution to perform their duties, including the clearance of candidates contesting in elections, in accordance with the Constitution,” stated LSK.
According to LSK the election of Mr. Chebochok undermines the efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence within the tea industry.
The Law Society of Kenya also noted that giving a pass to such perpetrators conveys a concerning message that individuals accused of sexual misconduct can rise to positions of power, hence fostering a culture of impunity and fear among female workers.
Kenya Tea Development Agency on 3rd July 2024, distanced itself from the election following a public outcry, stating that it played no role in Mr Chebochok’s election.
Lsk has further demanded that KTDA implement robust policies and mechanisms to ensure the safety and protection of all workers from sexual harassment and exploitation and must hold accountable those who fail to uphold ethical standards.
IEBC on the other hand has been asked to review its vetting procedures to conform with the express provisions of Chapter 6 of the Constitution to prevent individuals with questionable backgrounds from contesting for leadership positions in the future.