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| Garissa Governor Nathif Jama |
Garissa Governor Nathif Jama has stated that his administration is conducting thorough consultations before reaching a common stance on the ban of Muguka.
He made the announcement on Monday after holding Eid prayers at his office.
The Governor said the consultations will involve religious leaders, the County Assembly, elders and other stakeholders.
“Only after these consultations will a common stand be taken,” he assured.
Currently, the coastal counties of Mombasa, Kilifi, and Taita Taveta have banned the entry, transportation, sale, and consumption of Muguka.
“While I appreciate the moves made by our colleagues in Mombasa and other coastal counties, we must also consult with our clerics, County Assembly, elders, and other stakeholders. This will enable us to make a well-informed, concrete decision on this matter,” he said.
Governor Jama, addressing the issue for the first time, expressed his understanding of the societal problems caused by Muguka.
“We all understand the problems that this thing[Muguka]has brought to our county. It has completely messed up with families with our youth being the most affected. So definitely time has come for steps to be taken to correct the situation,” he said.
Last week, Lagdera MP Abdikadir Hussein urged Governor Jama to join the coastal governors who have already banned Muguka.
Hussein criticized the current protests against the ban, describing them as hypocritical.
“Leaders from Mt Kenya should stop this hypocrisy. On one hand, they support the crackdown on illicit brews and other substances in their region, but on the other, they are defending and supporting the sale of muguka just because they are minting millions out of it,” he said.
The MP said that the region is one of the most affected noting the visible effects on Muguka users , including mental illnesses.