Former Mumias Sugar employees threaten to sue over Ksh.2.4B arrears

The workers staged a peaceful demonstration, accusing the government of neglecting their plight and failing to honor promises to address their grievances.

Led by their union chairman, Patrick Mutimba, the workers decried the harsh living conditions they have endured due to the prolonged delay in payments.

"We were never paid. Some of us are dying. There are women here who were abandoned by their husbands. We’ve lost many people, and some of us are being evicted from our homes," said Oba Aura, a former worker. "We are begging the President to intervene because only he can help us."

Mutimba blamed the Ministry of Agriculture for failing to prioritize the welfare of Mumias Sugar workers, despite President William Ruto’s earlier commitment to settle pending arrears for former employees in the agricultural sector.

"We are wondering why the government keeps making speeches, but we get nothing in return," said Mutimba. "Three companies in Nyanza have been paid, but where is Mumias? Even the board chairman was appointed by the government, yet nothing has been done."

The workers issued a 14-day ultimatum to both the government and Sarrai Group, the current Mumias Sugar investor, to meet their demands. They warned that failure to comply would result in industrial action, including legal proceedings.

"If the receiver-manager and the government do not pay our dues within two weeks, we will move to court," said John Shihundu, another former worker. "We just want our money."

The demonstration underscored the mounting frustration among the workers, who say they have been left in financial limbo for years.

"The President gave us his word, and we celebrated him," said Hezron Barasa, a former employee. "We thought he would fulfill the promises he made, but to date, we have not received anything."

Ann Wekhomba, another worker, expressed hope that the government would deliver on its commitment. "We are still asking the President to ensure we are paid. We supported him, and I believe he will keep his promise."

Mumias Sugar Factory, once a major player in Kenya’s sugar sector, has faced numerous challenges since being placed under receivership. 

These include massive debts amounting to billions of shillings, disputes between the receiver-manager and stakeholders, and stiff competition from cheaper imported sugar and local rivals, all of which have crippled its operations and profitability.