A prominent creative director, Abel Mutua, has stirred public debate following a clip showing him posting a video challenging the benefits of cannabis, locally known as bhang.
This comes just days after the Rastafari Society of Kenya (RSK) was back in the High Court pursuing the decriminalisation of the substance.
Mutua’s remarks, made via a TikTok video, put him directly at odds with those advocating for the substance’s benefits, whether medicinal or spiritual.
Mkurugenzi Questions Bhang’s Value
In his statement, Mutua was clear about his personal experience with the drug’s impact. He suggested that he believes he will face criticism for his views.
Speaking candidly, he stated that he does not see the importance of bhang. He implied that he had not witnessed any instance where it has positively affected someone’s life.
“I do not know who bhang has helped in life, let me just speak the truth. I know people will crucify me for this,” he said.
Rastafari Legal Push Continues
The director’s comments surfaced while the RSK’s landmark constitutional challenge continues through the Kenyan legal system. The RSK is fighting to have the criminalisation of cannabis overturned, arguing that current laws violate the rights of Rastafarians.
The society considers the use of marijuana a central and vital part of their spiritual practice and faith.
The substance is important for healing, enhancing spirituality, and achieving a deeper connection with nature.
The original petition seeking legal parity for Rastafari was filed in 2021. They are requesting that Rastas be permitted to use the substance for reasoning and meditation, similar to those afforded licenses or medical prescriptions.
The society affirms that Rastafarians are “born, not created”. This unique identity underpins their request for religious accommodation.
State Delays Frustrate Community
The RSK case recently faced another hold-up in the High Court. The Attorney General (AG) was granted additional time to prepare and file necessary documents. This led to a postponement of the full hearing.
The lawyer for the Rastafari community opposed the adjournment, noting that the state has consistently delayed the case since it began.
The community has demonstrated significant patience while waiting for the proceedings to commence.
Despite these delays, the RSK maintains that its position aligns with Kenyan law concerning research. They cite Article 11 3 B, which dictates that the government should pass laws allowing research on all ‘Hindi seeds’ and various types of plants, including marijuana. Currently, the society notes they are “not allowed to touch the marijuana”.
Following the latest adjournment, the hearing was pushed forward to January next year (relative to the date of the session). Crucially, the court has set a definitive judgment date on March 2026.
BY moses sagwe
