Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has called for the resignation of Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua to allow for independent investigations into complaints linked to the foreign job placement initiative known as the Kazi Majuu program.
Speaking on Wednesday at the Senate, Khalwale urged Mutua to step aside in light of growing concerns from job seekers who allege they were defrauded after applying for employment opportunities abroad.
"On behalf of the youth who were conned with fake jobs abroad, I demand that Labour CS Mutua step down to pave the way for credible investigations," Khalwale said.
His remarks follow numerous complaints from individuals who claim to have undergone interviews, medical checks, and paid amounts reportedly ranging from Sh20,000 to Sh40,000, but never received job placements or refunds.
“Mutua announced the jobs at KICC. After interviews, successful applicants left their passports. Later, we were called back and asked to pay Sh20,000 for the medical check-up. My aunt paid the money, but to date, we have not received any refund," one of the applicants claimed.
While Kazi Majuu has been widely associated with government-led labour export efforts, it remains unclear whether all activities linked to the program were officially sanctioned by the Ministry of Labour or carried out by unauthorised agents capitalising on public interest.
In response, CS Mutua issued a statement on May 2, 2025, distancing the ministry from any fraudulent schemes. He emphasised that the government had not promised fake jobs and that the individuals who claimed to have been duped were not part of the official recruitment process.
“We have seen disturbing incidents involving fake messages, incitement, and unauthorised agents exploiting desperate youth,” the statement read.
“The Ministry is committed to ensuring all job opportunities through official channels are safe, transparent, and beneficial.”
Mutua further urged the public to verify the authenticity of overseas job offers through official government platforms and warned of ongoing investigations into fake recruitment networks.
