MP Ken Okoth wants Parliament to legalise marijuana in Kenya

MP Ken Okoth wants Parliament to legalise marijuana in Kenya

Kibera Member of Parliament Ken Okoth has written to National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi to petition for the legalisation of marijuana use in Kenya.

Mr. Okoth, at the same time, wants all criminal records against citizens with prior convictions of marijuana use dropped and amnesty measures instituted.

In a letter dated September 21, 2018, the legislator wants Parliament to regulate the growing and safe use of marijuana.

“The proposed Bill seeks to ensure that there is regulation for growth and safe use of marijuana and hemp including the registration of growers of growers, producers, manufacturers and users with special focus on protection of children/minors from illicit use just as we do with tobacco and alcohol,” reads the letter.

The legislator also wants research and policy development on growth and use of marijuana and hemp for medical, industrial, textile and recreational purposes “with a focus on preservation of intellectual property rights for Kenyan research and natural heritage, knowledge and our indigenous plant assets.”

Mr. Okoth also believes that legalising marijuana will boost the economy and provide jobs.

“Progressive taxation measures for the marijuana industry to boost economic independence of Kenya and promote job creation along the full spectrum of the value addition chain for marijuana and hemp,” he told Speaker Muturi.

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marijuana Speaker Justin Muturi Ken Okoth Kibera MP

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