Bata Shoe Company, an apparel and fashion accessories manufacturer and retailer in Limuru, Kiambu County has broken its silence after one of its employees collapsed and died while on duty on Saturday, October 26.
In an official statement, the company has revealed that it is saddened by the passing of Joshua Muthoka and sent its condolences to the family, it however sought to clarify the circumstances that led to Muthoks's death.
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of our employee, Joshua Muthoka., and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time."
The shoe company called out Nation Media Group for allegedly presenting inaccurate information while reporting on the unfortunate ordeal.
"It is essential to address and correct the inaccuracies presented in the recent article by Nation Media and on social media," Benson Okumu, the company's Managing Director noted on Thursday, October 31.
Nation Media reported that Muthoka had complained of chest pains on Friday, October 25, and asked for an off day, which he was denied, and proceeded to work on Saturday, October 26.
While on duty, he continued to complain of chest pains which became unbearable, Muthoka's workmakes had told the Nation Publication. According to the publication, the deceased crawled to the Company's health facility but there was nobody to attend to him.
In a controversial account of events, Bata alleged that Muthoka went to the clinic complaining of stomach pains and was attended to but unfortunately passed away four minutes while getting medical attention.
"On the day in question, Joshua reported experiencing stomach pains and was promptly assisted by his supervisor to seek medical attention at Bata Clinic."
"As he was being attended at the clinic during the examination and taking of vitals and not later than four minutes after his arrival, he suddenly collapsed and became unresponsive he was immediately transferred to Tigoni Hospital where he was declared dead on arrival and transferred to Tigoni mortuary," the Managing director recounted.
The company has assured that it takes its employee's Health with immense seriousness. According to the Managing Director, the employees undergo regular health and safety audits including mandatory statutory government audits and global audits.
"We take Employee Health and Safety seriously and that is why we have an onsite clinic managed by qualified health personnel and a visiting doctor. The clinic is equipped with all necessary equipment and a fully equipped ambulance." the notice by the MD read in part.
The shoe company has requested the media to verify facts with relevant sources before publication to avoid causing any distress to the family and the company.
