Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi and Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Commissioner General Humphrey Watanga face scrutiny over the handling of two major rice shipments. The imports, totaling 55,000 tonnes, are valued at about Sh5.5 billion.
The controversy arises from allegations that both officials ignored a court order restricting rice imports. The court had temporarily barred any shipments unless specific conditions were met, aiming to protect local producers and regulate duty-free imports.
KRA’s Commissioner for Customs & Border Control, Ms Lilian Nyawanda, is also implicated. She is accused of overseeing the clearance of the rice shipments late last year, despite the ongoing legal restrictions and the court directive in place.
The rice shipments in question were imported duty-free, raising concerns about compliance with Kenya’s trade and customs regulations. Critics argue that ignoring the court order could undermine local rice farmers and disrupt the domestic market.
Legal experts suggest that Treasury CS Mbadi and the KRA officials could face sanctions if found in contempt of court. Contempt charges carry serious consequences, including fines and potential restrictions on official duties.
Treasury CS John Mbadi. Photo Courtesy: Nation Africa.
The government’s handling of the imports has sparked public debate. Many citizens and industry stakeholders question whether proper oversight mechanisms were followed or if high-level interference allowed the rice to enter without adherence to legal requirements.
KRA defended its actions, claiming the shipments were processed under standard procedures. However, opposition figures argue that adherence to court orders is mandatory and that bypassing such directives sets a concerning precedent.
The rice import case highlights ongoing tensions between trade liberalization policies and protection of local industries. Analysts note that similar disputes in the past have resulted in policy reviews and stricter monitoring of duty-free import approvals.
Treasury CS Mbadi, Commissioner General Watanga, and Ms Nyawanda now await further legal scrutiny. Court hearings are expected to determine whether sanctions or penalties will be imposed for the alleged contempt and failure to comply with the import restrictions.
