Interior CS Fred Matiang’i

Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i criticized Roots Party presidential candidate George Wajackoyah for supporting the legalization of marijuana for commercial use.

During the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Matiang’i accused the honorable professor of misleading the youth in a statement that was read on his behalf by Interior Chief Administrative Secretary Winnie Guchu.

He said that while mentioning instances of nations that have legalized the use of the drug, Wajackoyah omitted information on the controls put in place.

“Regrettably, we have also observed leaders mobilising the youth through misinformation and false promises such as legalization of cannabis for commercial and recreational purposes if they are elected to office,” the statement read

“They have even cited countries that have legalised cannabis for recreational purposes without providing factual information on controls that have been put in place where such legalization has been allowed,” he added

Following the discussion over marijuana’s legalization, the CS expressed more worries about the rise in youth marijuana usage and misuse.

In Kenya, the substance is still illegal, he said. And the government will continue to enforce the current regulations to make sure that they are followed while the constitution is being reviewed.

Alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana were named as the most widely accessible drugs by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Misuse (NACADA), which also noted a spike in drug abuse among school-age children.

Nevertheless, Wajackoyah persisted in advocating for the legalization of marijuana during his political rallies in Western Kenya. He pledged to rip off flowers used for beauty and replace them with weed in Kakamega.