Today, a court in Kericho delivered a landmark ruling in favor of women’s rights by halting the swearing-in of Mr. John Chebochok as Director of Tegat/Toror Tea Factory, Ainamoi Zone. This decision follows serious allegations of sexual violence against him, as revealed in a BBC documentary titled The True Cost of Our Tea: Sexual Abuse on Kenyan Tea Farms.
The case, Petition No. E006 of 2024 – Wangu Kanja Foundation (K) Registered Trustees and OXFAM and 3 Others VS Tegat Tea Factory Limited and Kenya Tea Development Agency and 13 Others, was filed by civil society organizations, including UTU WETU, which participated as an Interested Party. The petitioners challenged the clearance and election of Mr. Chebochok, citing concerns over his professional and moral suitability, particularly in light of the sexual abuse allegations.
UTU WETU’s involvement in the case was instrumental in demonstrating the State’s constitutional obligation to protect victims of sexual violence and ensure accountability for perpetrators. The organization stressed that appointing an individual facing such serious allegations to a leadership position would erode public trust in institutions and the justice system.
In its ruling, the Court considered three key principles in determining whether the swearing-in should be stopped. First, it assessed whether the petitioners had established a prima facie case. The Court found that they had noted that the case raised critical constitutional issues, particularly under Articles 10 and 73(2), which address public officials’ integrity and moral suitability.
Second, the Court ruled that failing to intervene would render the petition moot, highlighting the need to address the serious allegations before confirming Mr. Chebochok’s appointment. Finally, the Court emphasized the significant public interest in preserving the integrity of the tea industry and protecting vulnerable women from sexual violence.
UTU WETU welcomes the Court’s ruling as a crucial step in safeguarding women in Kenya’s tea sector. Elsie Milimu, UTU WETU’s counsel on record, stated that the decision reinforces the importance of preventing individuals accused of sexual violence from holding influential positions.