Over 500 tea farmers who sell their green tea leaves to Kiptagich Tea Factory have threatened to quit for the nearby KTDA factory.
The farmers, speaking to members of press in Kiptagich town said the factory had delayed to pay them bonuses they have been waiting for since November 2014.
“We are giving them a red light if they will not solve our grievances within two days, we will renounce our membership and join Olenguruone KTDA factory that pays bonuses in time.” Kibet Rono said.
Kibet told this paper that the factory ignores the welfare of its customers despite the plea by the members to hasten the payments prior to opening of schools.
Jane Langat who is also a member was sad to express that she expected the bonuses to be used during the previous Christmas holidays but all went in vain.
However, the factory General Manager identified as Kirui said they were aware of the shortcoming but they are in the final stages towards paying them their bonuses.
“We kindly request all our members to bear with us because the problem we had, is now ending and in the coming week we will start paying the December dues for green leaves prior to the bonuses at the same time.” He said.
Kirui further faulted the KTDA directors who campaigning for January elections to be inciting the farmers against their factory which he said it was trying.
Concerning unconfirmed allegations that the factory was to be sold to James Finlay Company, Kirui told members that that was a mere propaganda that they should keep off.