Bold accusations are shaking the foundations of workplace safety and respect in Kenya. The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya) has taken a strong stance, demanding that a Chinese national involved in an assault be deported immediately. This call comes after a viral video, which has ignited widespread public outrage, shows a Kenyan worker defending himself while being kicked and slapped by the foreign supervisor.
The footage, which lacks a specific date but has gained significant attention online, depicts a distressing scene: a Kenyan employee trying to protect himself as his Chinese manager physically assaults him. The union has identified the individual as a manager at TCM Mabati Factory located in Eldoret County, with the worker under his supervision during the incident.
In an official statement addressed to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, COTU emphasized that such behavior is a blatant violation of the worker’s rights and dignity. They firmly stated that they will not tolerate foreigners undermining Kenyan workers through violence or abuse. The union explicitly called for the immediate deportation of the Chinese manager, warning that anything less would betray the trust that Kenyan employees have placed in the government’s ability to protect their rights.
Furthermore, COTU has urged the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, led by CS Murkomen, to ramp up efforts to monitor, enforce, and ensure compliance among businesses operated by foreign nationals. They advocate for stricter oversight to prevent similar incidents from recurring.
Interestingly, the assaulted worker has chosen to forgive his supervisor, expressing a desire to continue working at the factory. In a subsequent video, he stated, “I have forgiven him, and I still want to work here. If there is a next time, we will handle it professionally—perhaps talking in the office, and I will accept my part in the disagreement. But I have forgiven him.” This attitude of forgiveness highlights a complex layer of resilience amid tension.
This incident is not isolated. Just recently, COTU raised concerns over another Chinese investor operating within the Export Processing Zone (EPZ). Reports reveal that this investor forced Kenyan workers to sing Chinese songs—before, during, and after working hours—and verbally abused the General Secretary of the Tailors and Textile Workers Union. These ongoing issues suggest a pattern that raises serious questions about foreign workers' treatment and the enforcement of labor laws in Kenya.
And this is the part most people might miss: Should foreign employers be held to stricter standards? Or does this situation reflect deeper issues within Kenya’s labor management and oversight? Do you think the government’s response is adequate, or is more aggressive intervention necessary? Share your thoughts—this debate is far from over.
