China Square HR manager transferred over claims of wrongfully firing employees
A view of a section of the China Square Stores in Kisumu at the Mega City Mall on November 23, 2024.
What you need to know:
- The Sh500 million retail outlet has faced public backlash over accusations of worker mistreatment,
- In response, China Square on February 9 dismissed the allegations as rumours and misinformation.
China Square, a personal and household merchandise retailer, has transferred its Kisumu branch human resource manager following allegations of unlawful dismissals and tribal bias in hiring of workers.
Speaking during a fact-finding mission by members of the county assembly of Kisumu, China Square Director Lei Cheng, alias Charlie, pledged to conduct an internal audit and reinstate employees who were wrongfully dismissed within a week.
“Currently we are transferring our HR manager to another branch with immediate effect. We will also audit our HR teams and share the findings with relevant authorities to ensure fairness. We are committed to hiring locals from Kisumu,” Mr Lei said.
He also reaffirmed the company's commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes, stating that Kisumu would be a key focus this year.
The Sh500 million retail outlet has faced public backlash over accusations of worker mistreatment, including claims that a senior manager engaged in intimidation, unfair dismissals, and tribal favouritism in hiring.
The controversy has sparked widespread outrage, with Kisumu residents taking to China Square’s social media pages to demand accountability.
In response, China Square on February 9 dismissed the allegations as “rumours and misinformation.”
The company insisted that recent staff changes were part of a routine restructuring process aimed at improving efficiency.
“We have conducted a thorough investigation into recent allegations and wish to address the rumours surrounding our Kisumu store. To enhance operational efficiency, we recently carried out staff reorganization, which included some layoffs,” the statement read in part.
The company noted that the Kisumu branch employs 115 workers, over 70 percent of whom are locals, emphasizing its commitment to following Kenya’s labour laws.
Market Milimani Ward Representative Seth Kanga, who led the MCAs' on a fact-finding mission, said they were committed to ensuring a conducive business environment in Kisumu.
“We are committed to improving the business environment, but we also urge China Square to prioritise local hires. The people shopping here are locals, and their interests must be considered,” Mr Kanga said.
Other MCAs present during the mission included Joakim Oketch (Kondele Ward), Kennedy Ooko (Labour Committee Chair), and Caren Adhiambo (Shaurimoyo-Kaloleni Ward).