Confusion as Lobby Group in KTDA Sexual Harassment Case Now Want Their Witnesses to Testify in Camera

The lobby groups that filed a case and blocked the swearing-in of KTDA director John Chebochok now want the court to allow their witnesses to testify in camera.

In the case, the activists secured orders suspending the swearing-in of the newly elected Director of Toror Tea Factory, John Chebochok.

The groups include Usikimye CBO, Wangu Kanja Foundation (K) Registered Trustee, Oxfam, The African Gender and Media Initiative Trustees, and Flambe Initiative.

Through their lawyer, the lobby groups informed Kericho High Court Judge Joseph Sergon that due to the sensitivity of the case, they are requesting that their witnesses be protected and allowed to testify in camera.

However, Chebochok’s lawyer opposed the petitioners’ application, arguing that the witnesses should face his client since there is already a documentary posted worldwide on the matter.

Justice Sergon stated that he will give directions on the application when the matter comes up for mention next month.

The activists have argued that there is a real and imminent threat to the financial stability and reputation of the Tegat Tea Factory Limited if Chebochok is approved as a director.

They further contend 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.

The Kenya Tea Development Agency Group Company Secretary has supported their application, arguing that Chebochok’s election is not only affecting the sales of the factory he was elected to but is also impacting the brand of the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) and all its smallholder factories, thereby putting at risk the economic livelihood of more than a million farmers who supply tea to KTDA factories.