The residents of Soy Sub-County, Uasin Gishu County, have announced plans to stage a peaceful demonstration on January 24, 2025, to protest alleged mistreatment by Maji Mazuri Flowers, a local flower farm. The demonstration, which will take place from Chebarus Center to the Maji Mazuri Flowers gate, aims to address several grievances, including unfair labor practices, environmental pollution, and the mistreatment of local workers.
The community, led by Peter Kibet arap Biwott, the community team leader, has formally requested police protection for the event, which will run from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. According to the community, the protest will be non-violent and will strictly adhere to the guidelines outlined under Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and protest.
In a letter addressed to the Officer Commanding Police Division (OCBD) at Moi’s Bridge Police Station, the community expressed concerns over alleged human rights violations, including forced labor, victimization of local workers, and discrimination in hiring practices. The residents also highlighted issues such as the pollution of water sources, mistreatment of children, and the lack of corporate social responsibility from the company.
The group further claims that Maji Mazuri Flowers has failed to respect the community’s cultural rights, citing restrictions on traditional rites of passage and acts of intimidation against locals, including unlawful arrests for basic activities like fetching firewood. They also mentioned the sacking of 120 workers, some of whom allegedly lost their lives due to mistreatment.
"We are here to demand justice for our people who have suffered under the hands of this company. We have lost lives, our cultural rights have been violated, and workers have been mistreated and fired unfairly. We are asking for a change," said Peter Kibet arap Biwott in a statement.
The letter also outlined the community’s commitment to ensuring that the demonstration remains peaceful, respectful, and non-violent. The protest will be supervised by Kibet, who will be assisted by Isaac Kipkorir. The group expects at least 100 participants and has pledged to cooperate fully with the police to ensure the safety and orderliness of the event.
In addition to the demand for police protection, the community has requested guidance on any specific regulations that need to be followed during the demonstration, including establishing a point of contact with the Police Service for effective communication and coordination.
The community has also written to fair trade internatinal in Germany citing the removal of fair trade certification because there are enough reasons to believe that Maji Mazuri flowers do not comply to its requirements. This has the implication to reduce markets especially in European and the Americas markets.
As the demonstration approaches, local authorities and Maji Mazuri Flowers are expected to address the concerns raised by the community to avoid further escalation. The peaceful protest is seen as a crucial moment for the residents of Soy Sub-County to voice their dissatisfaction and push for the protection of their rights and well-being.
This planned demonstration is the latest in a series of protests across Kenya advocating for better labor practices and corporate accountability. The outcome of the protest could have significant implications for local communities and corporate relations in the region.