The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) has called for the immediate deportation of a Chinese manager captured on video assaulting a Kenyan worker in Eldoret on Saturday, November 16, 2025. The union described the incident as a “gross violation of the rights and dignity of Kenyan workers” and urged authorities to crack down on rogue foreign employees abusing their authority.
A video circulating on social media shows the Chinese national physically attacking the Kenyan employee with an iron sheet. Despite repeated provocations, the worker exercised remarkable restraint, avoiding retaliation even as a bystander urged him to fight back. The incident quickly sparked outrage online, with many condemning the manager’s actions and calling for justice.
COTU revealed that the worker and the Chinese manager have since reconciled. However, the union expressed concern that such reconciliations may be misinterpreted as condoning abusive behavior. “We will not stand and watch the dignity of Kenyan workers violated by some rogue Chinese employers operating within our borders,” the union statement said.
The union also highlighted another alarming case involving a Chinese supervisor who allegedly forced Kenyan staff to sing Chinese songs during work hours while subjecting them to long working hours for minimal pay. COTU has publicly flagged the manager involved, providing details including his name, passport number, and KRA pin.
In light of these incidents, COTU is urging the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection to enhance monitoring, compliance, and enforcement measures on businesses managed by foreign nationals. The union emphasized that such measures are critical to protecting Kenyan workers from exploitation and abuse.
“These repeated cases of abuse by foreign investors demand immediate action,” the union stated. “We call on the authorities to take strict measures, including deportation where necessary, to ensure the safety and dignity of Kenyan workers.”
COTU’s move underscores growing concerns over the treatment of local employees in foreign-managed enterprises, signaling a call for stronger labor protections and accountability mechanisms.
