China Square CEO Lei Cheng addressing the media, confirming the immediate transfer of the rogue HR manager at the Kisumu branch. Photo/Jandiko
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Kisumu residents can now breathe a sigh of relief after a meeting between China Square CEO Lei Cheng and Kisumu County Assembly members addressed serious allegations circulating on social media about unfair dismissals and harassment at the Kisumu branch. The accusations pointed to the store’s HR officer, who was accused of firing local employees and replacing them with individuals from his own community.
Joachim Oketch, the Kondele MCA, confirmed the allegations during a media briefing on February 10, 2025, stating that a roundtable discussion had been held to address the claims.
We raised all the issues, including serious allegations of discrimination and unfair dismissals. We had local leaders, the area MP, civil society representatives, and the labor office involved in the meeting,” said Oketch.
In response, CEO Lei Cheng assured the public that immediate action would be taken.
We are aware of the information circulating on social media, and we have decided to transfer the current HR manager to another branch with immediate effect. An audit will be conducted to determine the truth about those who were dismissed, and we will work on reinstating any employees who were unfairly let go,” said Cheng.
The CEO further emphasized that Kisumu had been chosen for investment due to its welcoming nature and pledged to continue supporting local initiatives.
“Kisumu is a calm city, and we are committed to corporate social responsibility programs in the region,” he added.
Kisumu County Assembly Chief Whip Seth Ochieng Kanga clarified that the assembly’s involvement was not to stage a protest but to gather facts, resulting in positive outcomes.
“We did not stage a sitting at China Square; we came for a fact-finding mission, and our efforts have yielded results,” Kanga stated.
A follow-up meeting is scheduled for next week, to be chaired by Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathew Owili, with the aim of discussing further investment plans in Kisumu, including the potential opening of a new store in Kondele.
“Kisumu is a safe place for investment, and we are encouraging more investors to come,” said Kanga.
Kisumu County Labour and Social Services Chair Zack Okoyo summarized the meeting’s resolutions, emphasizing the commitment to fair treatment of employees and continued investment in the community.
The HR manager will be transferred, an audit will be conducted, and employees who were unfairly dismissed will be reinstated,” Okoyo confirmed.
The meeting, which included several members of the Kisumu County Assembly and top police officers, underscored the importance of addressing local concerns while fostering a supportive environment for business growth.
