Kibera MP Ken Okoth Pushes for Legalization of Bhang in Kenya in New Bill

Kibera Member of Parliament Ken Okoth is pushing for the legalization of bhang in Kenya in a new Bill.

In a letter to National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi, Okoth further wants all criminal records against Kenyans with past convictions of marijuana use be withdrawn and amnesty measures instituted.

In the letter dated September 21st, the two-time MP wants the National Assembly 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.

Okoth also wants the government to fund research and policy development on growth and use of bhang 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.”

He argues that legalizing marijuana will boost the economy and provide jobs to hundreds of unemployed population.

“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 says.

Okoth joins economist David Ndii and Raila Odinga's son, Junior who have called on government to decriminalize the use and sale of the substance.