Dj Vnyash
Bata Shoe Company, a Limuru-based manufacturer and retailer of footwear and fashion accessories, has issued a statement following the sudden death of its employee, Joshua Muthoka, who collapsed while on duty on Saturday, October 26.
In its statement, Bata expressed sorrow over Muthoka’s passing, offering condolences to his family, but also sought to clarify the circumstances surrounding his death.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague, Joshua Muthoka, and extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family during this difficult period,” the statement read.
Bata took issue with Nation Media Group for allegedly providing inaccurate details in its coverage of the incident.
“It is essential to address and correct the inaccuracies presented in the recent article by Nation Media and on social media,” Managing Director Benson Okumu noted on Thursday, October 31.
Nation Media reported that Muthoka had complained of chest pains on Friday, October 25, requested a day off, which was denied, and proceeded to work on Saturday, October 26. According to the report, while at work, he continued to experience chest pain, and coworkers said he crawled to the company clinic, where no one was available to assist him.
In a differing account, Bata claimed Muthoka had reported stomach pain and was attended to promptly at the clinic but unfortunately passed away four minutes later while receiving care.
“On the day in question, Joshua reported experiencing stomach pain and was promptly assisted by his supervisor to seek medical attention at Bata Clinic,” the statement clarified. “As he was being examined and had his vitals checked, he suddenly collapsed and became unresponsive. He was immediately transferred to Tigoni Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival and later taken to Tigoni mortuary.”
The company assured the public of its strong commitment to employee health and safety, noting that it conducts regular health audits and provides an onsite clinic staffed by qualified personnel and a visiting doctor.
“We take Employee Health and Safety seriously, which is why we have an onsite clinic managed by qualified health personnel and a fully equipped ambulance,” the statement added.
Bata requested that media outlets verify details with credible sources to avoid causing undue distress to the family and the company.
Silverio Omari
