High Court suspends the swearing-in of John Chebochok As Director Of Toror Tea Factory.

The High Court in Kericho has suspended the swearing-in of John Chebochok, the newly elected Director of Toror Tea Factory. This decision comes amid growing concerns over the financial stability and reputation of Tegat Tea Factory Limited, the parent company of Toror Tea Factory if Chebochok assumes the director's position.

The suspension follows a petition filed by five organizations: Usikimye CBO, Wangu Kanja Foundation (K) Registered Trustee, Oxfam, The African Gender and Media Initiative Trustees, and Flonbe Initiative. The petitioners argue that Chebochok's appointment poses "a real and imminent threat to the financial stability and reputation of Tegat Tea Factory Limited."

"That in the meantime the AGM scheduled for 18th of this month to swear in John Chebokoch into office as a director is suspended. The matter is scheduled for ruling on 15th of next month," reads the court order.

The petitioners claim that the stakeholders and purchasers of tea from Tegat Tea Factory Limited have vehemently opposed Chebochok's election. This opposition has reportedly led to suspending business with the factory, resulting in a significant financial downturn.

“1st Respondent 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 petitioners argue.

The matter was brought before the court on Monday, where it was decided that the petitioners' application would be addressed through written submissions.

Adding weight to the petitioners' concerns, the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) Group Company Secretary has also supported the notice of motion. The Secretary pointed out that Chebochok’s election is not only impacting the sales of Toror Tea Factory but is also tarnishing the brand of the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) and all its smallholder factories. This situation is jeopardizing the economic livelihood of more than a million farmers who supply tea to KTDA factories.

The court's decision to suspend the AGM and Chebochok's swearing-in marks a significant pause in the unfolding saga. The ruling, scheduled for August 15, 2024, will be crucial in determining the future leadership of Toror Tea Factory and its potential impact on the broader tea industry in Kenya.

As the tea community awaits the final ruling, the case underscores the critical importance of ethical leadership and integrity in maintaining the trust and stability of vital economic sectors.