The High Court in Meru on Thursday issued interim orders barring the release of Sh1.2 billion for the revival of miraa farming.
The government suffered a temporary blow in its bid to revive miraa farming after the High Court in Meru on Thursday issued interim orders barring the release of Sh1.2 billion for the purpose.
Justice Alfred Mabeya also barred the Miraa Task Force committee chaired by Geoffrey Nchooro M’Mwenda from performing its duties until the matter is determined on September 28.
The ruling means farmers cannot receive seed capital, form saccos, find new markets or benefit from State-financed research as recommended by the presidential task force.
The government had last week published a gazette notice transforming the miraa task force into an implementation committee.
Three traders, suing on behalf of Nyambene Miraa Traders Association (Nyamita), moved to court, saying stakeholders and Meru county government were not consulted about the plan.
Lawyers Laichena Mugambi, holding brief for Ayeko Kangethe for the petitioners, and Frank Walukwe for the county government told the court the money may be spent since President Uhuru Kenyatta had gazetted the names of the committee members on Friday.
“We are seeking from the court to restrain the government from releasing the money because if it’s released the suit before this court will be rendered useless,’’Mr Walukwe argued.
Kimathi Munjuri, Jacob Miriti and Naftaly Kathurima argued that releasing the Sh1.2 billion may not serve the best interest of miraa farmer, traders and residents of khat growing areas.
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