Members of the previous Kenya Tea Development Agency board, which was replaced last year, stormed the agency’s Nairobi headquarters on Monday in an attempted takeover.
However, current board chair David Muni Ichoho advised them to be patient.
“There are several legal matters which have been raised regarding the Tea Act 2020 and the contentious removal of the board led by Peter Kanyago,” the tea body said in a statement.
“All these matters have not been determined and currently board led by David Muni Ichoho is in charge of the business affairs of KTDA until all the matters in court are heard and determined,” the press release said.
KTDA requested that the former board refrain from interfering with the operations of their factories, subsidiaries, and headquarters.
“In recognition of the rule of law, we request the former board to cease interfering with the running of the factories, KTDA subsidiary companies, and KTDA head office as this will interfere with the smooth running of the farmers’ business,” the statement said.
The tea body also stated that it will not tolerate any political maneuvering aimed at undoing the gains made over the years.
“All political intrigues which are going to destroy the sector which has seen tremendous gains will not be condoned.”
David Ichoho, the current KTDA chairman, stated that “former directors and former KTDA board members are persona non grata in all KTDA affiliated facilities.”
The agency has assured tea farmers that it is committed to making tea a profitable business venture.
“The smallholder tea sector caters to more than 10 million Kenyans and should be treated with utmost care. We would like to assure our farmers that the management team and the board are committed to delivering on the business of making tea a profitable venture and they should continue plucking their tea and ensure that the factories are fully operational,” the statement added.
