Blow to the newly appointed KTDA Director John Chebochok as a Kericho High Court suspended his swearing in as the new director pending ruling of a case filed by lobby groups challenging his election over his alleged sexual harassment expose by BBC news agency.
Chebochok was elected the Director of Toror Tea Factory but activists challenged the election citing his involvement in an alleged sexual harassment against vulnerable and defenceless female job seekers.
“That in the meantime the AGM scheduled for 18th of this month to swear in John Chebochok into office as a director is suspended. Matter is scheduled for ruling on 15th of next month,” reads court order
According to the Activists, there is a real and imminent threat to the financial stability and reputation of the Tegat Tea Factory Ltd if Chebochok takes office as the director during the Special General Meeting scheduled for 18th July 2024.
The Activists groups include Usikimye CBO, Wangu Kanja Foundaton (K) Registered Trustee , Oxfam, The African Gender and Media 8Initiatative Trustees and Flonbe Initoative.
They argue that stakeholders and purchasers of tea from their company have protested the election of the Chebochok and have suspended their business with them, leading to a significant financial downturn.
The Court heard that Chebochok does not meet the provisions of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya, which emphasizes the responsibilities and ethics required of public officers, including integrity, leadership accountability, and adherence to ethical standards.
