Government Spokesperson Eric Kiraithe has found himself on the receiving end after he asked Kenyans to bear with and appreciate the work the Chinese are doing in the management of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).
This is despite the claims of racial discrimination of Kenyan workers on the Madaraka Express train service that operates between Nairobi and Mombasa.
Speaking to the press at the KICC on Wednesday, Kiraithe said the employees need to change their attitude since working on the SGR demands a military-like discipline.
"Whereas the government is at hand to protect the individual rights and dignity of every Kenyan, the inward looking 'haki yetu' (self-seeking) workplace culture has no place in the Madaraka Express, neither now, nor in future," the Spokesman said.
The remarks, however, did not augur well with some Kenyans who took to social media to express their fury and displeasure, claiming the government has 'allowed' China to mistreat citizens.
Samuel Kimemia said: "You are still reasoning like a police spokesperson, shift your mindset boss. It's so disheartening to see someone of your calibre supporting mistreatment by foreigners."
Nzangityii Tyii Tyii retorted: "The Chinese High Commissioner visited that AG after the complaints...."
Omire Tom posted: "Truly Kenya 'hakuna matata'...your own brother will turn against you instead of defending you against an enemy!"
Mike Evanson had this to say: "I feel so bitter with this. If Uhuru cares he should first fire this guy."
"Whom to turn to if that is the response from the one supposed to protect you?" said David Mukirae.
Isaac Koroso remarked: "Military-like discipline? Why should it be applicable to local employees only? It's primitive and should not be tolerated in the modern Kenya!"
Mike Evanson posted: "And this even encourages the Chinese to oppress our people more. Citizens comes first before foreigners."
"Well, eventually, we will just have to stop using the SGR and revert back to the buses. China must be hardened too," stated Kavuko Kavuko.
"Then let them take the military to go and work there," said Victor Otieno.
Jack Mutai remarked: "No no Kiraithe. The government should protect its citizens over foreigners."