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Stakeholders have raised alarms over the recent ban on muguka, a variety of miraa, voicing strong opposition to the decision. Led by Simon Njeru Gatumu, a farmer from Kithimu Ward in Embu County and a former UDA aspirant, the stakeholders have termed the ban as ill-advised.
Gatumu and his fellow stakeholders have filed a case in court, urging that the issue of muguka should not be politicized and should be approached with due consideration for all affected parties. They emphasized the need for harmony among Kenyans and called on leaders to speak with one voice regarding the ban.
In response to the uproar, President William Ruto declared the ban on muguka in Kilifi and Mombasa counties as null and void. He reiterated that muguka is a scheduled crop according to the Crops Act 2013 and the Miraa Regulations 2023.
“The Miraa Regulations Act was passed by the National Assembly and the Council of Governors with the concurrence of the council,” President Ruto stated, underscoring the legal framework supporting the cultivation and trade of muguka.
The controversy has highlighted the tension between local governance and national legislation, with stakeholders urging for a balanced and fair approach to the regulation of muguka. As the court case proceeds, the farming community and political leaders alike are watching closely, advocating for a resolution that considers the economic and social implications of such bans.
