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The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has issued a stern statement addressing the growing concerns over the mismanagement and corruption plaguing the National Fertilizer Subsidy Program (NFSP). Led by President Faith Odhiambo, the LSK expressed deep disappointment over the program’s failure to deliver on its promises, which has left farmers in distress and the agricultural sector in crisis.
Key Issues Highlighted by LSK
The NFSP, launched in September 2022, aimed to offer subsidized fertilizer to Kenyan farmers to boost agricultural productivity and stabilize food prices. However, recent reports have revealed significant breaches of duty, acts of incompetence, and rampant fraud and corruption within the program’s implementation.
Farmers have been facing bureaucratic hurdles, corruption, and delays in accessing fertilizer. Even more concerning is the revelation that fake fertilizer has been sold to unsuspecting farmers, severely impacting their crop yields and incomes. The LSK blamed the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) and the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) for failing to enforce quality control measures, thereby allowing this fraudulent activity to persist.
Additionally, the LSK pointed out severe delays in the delivery and distribution of fertilizer by the NCPB. This has resulted in high transaction costs, longer waiting times for farmers, and created an environment ripe for corruption.
LSK’s Demands and Actions
In response to these issues, the LSK has demanded immediate action from the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture to address the crisis and offer reparations to affected farmers. The LSK has also provided recommendations to the Cabinet Secretary, urging the implementation of effective measures to resolve the NFSP’s issues.
If the Ministry fails to act within the given timeframe, the LSK has vowed to take legal actions against all parties involved, including Mr. Mithika Linturi, the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture. LSK plans to petition Parliament for Linturi’s removal from office, citing gross misconduct, constitutional violations, and incompetence.
Furthermore, the LSK intends to pursue a class-action lawsuit on behalf of the affected farmers to seek compensation from the responsible parties, including the Ministry, NCPB, KEBS, and other officials involved in the NFSP scam.
Concluding Remarks
The LSK’s statement underscores the urgent need for accountability, transparency, and effective management of public programs. With farmers struggling to break even and food security at risk, the NFSP’s failure has not only impacted the agricultural sector but also exacerbated Kenya’s economic challenges.
As the LSK continues to advocate for justice and accountability, all eyes are now on the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and other responsible officials to take decisive action and restore
