Governors from Kenya’s Coastal counties have refused to attend a scheduled meeting with President William Ruto on Tuesday to discuss the controversial ban on Muguka.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the governors emphasized the need for more comprehensive consultations with other elected leaders and the public before engaging with the President.
The decision to skip the meeting, which was communicated by Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei in a letter dated June 13, reflects the governors’ insistence on a more inclusive dialogue regarding the Muguka issue.
The meeting was intended to bring together leaders from the Coast and Muguka-producing counties, including Meru, Tharaka Nithi, and Embu, for discussions at State House on Tuesday, June 18.
Coast leaders, however, have expressed concerns over the handling of the ban and the lack of sufficient consultation with their communities. During a consultative meeting held at Mombasa Beach Hotel, hosted by Governor Abdulswamad Nassir of Mombasa, the governors resolved to seek additional time for broader engagement.
Other notable leaders present included Governors Gideon Mungaro (Kilifi), Major (Rtd) Dhadho Godhana (Tana River), and Issa Timamy (Lamu). Senators Mwinyihaji Faki (Mombasa) and Danson Mungatana (Tana River), as well as MPs Mishi Mboko (Likoni) and Rashid Bedzimba (Kisauni), also participated, with many other leaders joining virtually.
Governor Nassir, in a separate statement, underscored the importance of involving all Coast leaders, including those from county assemblies, in any discussion regarding the Muguka ban. “The President must exclusively engage all Coast leaders before any meeting with other parties.”
The controversy surrounding Muguka, which has significant socio-economic implications, has been a point of contention between the Coast counties and the national government. Muguka, known for its stimulant properties, is a source of livelihood for many in the producing counties but is viewed as a social menace by some communities in the Coast region.
Earlier this month, the Coast governors and MPs similarly declined a meeting with Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi, accusing the ministry of prioritizing the interests of Muguka-producing counties over the concerns of those affected by its consumption.
The governors have called on President Ruto to personally lead further consultations on the ban, highlighting the need for an approach that includes perspectives from all affected regions. They pointed out that the President had already engaged with leaders from Muguka-producing counties and Central Kenya before directing the current talks, suggesting a perceived imbalance in the consultation process.
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