Alternative Circle co-founder Anthony Kariuki resigns over sexual misconduct
Anthony Kariuki, one of the co-founders of Alternative Circle has resigned from the company. Anthony resigned from the company following allegations of sexual misconduct in the workplace.
The company’s board, through a press statement sent out today, said Anthony will no longer represent Alternative Circle in any capacity. The company’s CEO Kevin Mutiso has stated that Alternative Circle is committed to maintaining a work environment free from all forms of coercion and harassment that impede the professional process. This commitment, he says includes the prevention and severe punishment of sexual harassment, where it occurs.
“Our policy on sexual harassment is clear and explicit; sexual harassment in any form is unacceptable, and it will not be tolerated, no matter the rank or status of any employee”, he said.
He adds that the company will make no further comment on the matter so as to protect the identity of the victim who has chosen to remain anonymous. Alternative Circle will give the victim all the support they need during this period including counseling, to enable the victim to pursue their job to the best of their ability.
Founded in 2016 with a vision of providing financial access through technology to over 200 million users globally, Alternative Circle has closed a seed round of 1.1 million USD from CreditInfo in 2017 and this enabled the expansion of the company. Their strategic partnership with CreditInfo gave Alternative Circle access to over 200 developers and 25 data scientists, making it easier for Alternative Circle to become the leading Financial Technology Innovator in the country.
Alternative Circle’s first product, Shika is a Kenyan Built Mobile app made for individuals who want to access quick micro-loans, in an easy and fast way. The application is also built for Financial Institutions that can use the platform to reach potential borrowers.
