Fresh claims of serious misconduct have emerged from Panda Mart, adding to the growing controversy surrounding the Chinese-owned retail chain that runs outlets in various parts of Nairobi, including Garden City Mall and Galleria Mall on Lang’ata Road.
These new revelations show a disturbing picture of a workplace filled with abuse, coercion, and lack of concern for employees’ wellbeing. This is not the first time Panda Mart has come under fire for labour violations.
Earlier reports had already exposed serious issues at the Garden City branch, including the role played by Pearl Space Recruitment Agency, which supplies most of the staff.
The agency has been accused of enabling abuse through unequal treatment, lack of job security, and harsh working conditions.
Workers previously reported being forced to follow strict rules like timed bathroom breaks, paying for their own uniforms, and not being allowed to talk or use their phones while on duty.
Pregnant workers have complained of harassment and being pushed to take early maternity leave.
Others have faced sudden demotions and pay cuts without any clear reason or official communication. The staff also pointed out that those hired directly by Panda Mart are paid better and treated more fairly than agency workers.
Even with all the attention these complaints received, the situation seems to be getting worse. New information from the Galleria Mall outlet has brought to light more disturbing claims.
Employees say they are being forced to attend late-night parties organised by senior staff. These gatherings are disguised as team-building events, but attendance is not optional.
Even those with families and other commitments are pressured to attend, and they are not allowed to leave until the following day after finishing another full shift.This has caused stress and problems in many workers’ homes.
The situation has become more serious, with some workers alleging that sexual favours are being demanded at these events. Those who refuse fear they could lose their jobs, especially since many are hired on insecure one-month contracts.
Workers are afraid to speak out due to fear of losing their income. Along with these new allegations, the older complaints such as low wages, no payslips, and lack of contracts show a worrying pattern of abuse across the company.
Some workers have reportedly turned to drug use to cope, highlighting how toxic and harmful the workplace has become.
Public concern is growing, with many now questioning how such practices have been allowed to continue for so long. Both Panda Mart’s top leadership and the recruitment agency are under pressure to explain their role. Labour enforcement bodies are also being asked to step in and act before more harm is caused.
One worker reached out directly to Cyprian Nyakundi, a well-known whistleblower, saying they are being forced to attend parties where they are kept late and asked for sexual favours in return for job security.
The message ended by revealing that during lunch breaks, some employees go across South Lang’ata Road to garages to buy marijuana, a sign of the emotional and psychological damage they are suffering under these conditions.
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