The government has overturned the election of John Chebochok as zonal director of the Tegat/Rorok tea factory, a subsidiary of the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA).

The decision follows mounting pressure from stakeholders over allegations of sexual misconduct levelled against Chebochok.

Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh confirmed the nullification, citing public outcry as the primary reason for the government's intervention.

The Tegat/Rorok factory has been embroiled in controversy since Chebochok’s election, with major tea buyers suspending trade in protest.

Four other directors - Kemboi Geoffrey Kipkirui, Philip Kipkoech, Japeth Chepkwony, and Chepkirui Korir - were confirmed following their election on June 29, 2024.

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However, the ministry has remained silent on pending legal challenges related to the elections of Chebochok and Waldai zonal director Kiprono Bii.

In a bid to restore normalcy to the tea trade, Ronoh has directed the East Africa Tea Trade Association to resume the sale of tea from the factory.

"You are hereby directed to communicate this information to your board and stakeholders in the sector," the Principal Secretary stated in a letter dated August 2, 2024.

The controversy surrounding Chebochok erupted following a BBC documentary that aired in February 2023, alleging sexual misconduct by several tea industry managers, including Chebochok.

Despite the allegations, Chebochok has denied any wrongdoing and has faced criticism for evading media scrutiny.

A petition challenging Chebochok's election, filed by several NGOs including Usikimye and Wangu Kanja Foundation, is currently before the High Court. The Law Society of Kenya is also involved in the case.

Mary Migwi, co-founder of Usikimye Foundation, emphasised that the case was brought in the public interest to address the issue of sexual exploitation of women in the tea industry.

Both the Tea Board of Kenya and KTDA have distanced themselves from Chebochok's candidacy, while the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) claimed that no complaints were lodged against him at the time of clearance.

However, Justice Joseph Sergon issued an injunction halting Chebochok's confirmation pending the outcome of the court case on August 15.

Recent chaos at the factory, involving clashes between shareholders and police, underscored the tensions surrounding the elections.

Despite the unrest, four directors were confirmed last week under heavy security.