LSK Threatens To Sue CS Linturi Over Fake Fertiliser Scandal: "Impunity Is Met With Firm Action"

• Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture Mithika Linturi was put on the spot again by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) over fake fertiliser
• LSK threatened to sue Linturi for overgrowth of issues raised by farmers on the National Fertiliser Subsidy Programme
• The LSK said the programme has underperformed due to incompetency and corruption as well as delayed distribution of fertiliser

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has threatened to sue Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi over the fertiliser scandal.

Addressing the media on Monday, April 22, LSK president Faith Odhiambo said the society had taken notice of increased concern about the corruption and incompetence of the National Fertiliser Subsidy Programme (NSFP).

"The LSK is perturbed about the growing concerns surrounding the implementation of NSFP, which has recently come under scrutiny due to reports of substantial breaches of duty, acts of incompetence, and allegations of fraud and corruption," Odhiambo stated.

Demands of LSK to CS Linturi

The society called out Linturi for engaging in a public spat with journalist John-Allan Namu who exposed the fake fertiliser scandal, acting on unclear investigations instead of providing clear policy directions from the ministry.

"Article 153(2) imposes a burden on the CS to be individually accountable for the exercise of his powers and the performance of his functions," LSK boss explained.

LSK demanded that Linturi takes action and addresses the issues surrounding the NSFP, compensate farmers, and implement several recommendations to address issues raised by Kenyans.

"We, therefore, call out the CS and demand he takes action to address the unprecedented horror show guise at the NSFP and reparations to farmers. CS Linturi should also consider and implement recommendations that we consider will address the main issue," LSK demanded.

Failure to address the demands by the LSK during the period of demand, the society warned they would push for the removal of from office.

"We will petition parliament to call for the immediate removal of Linturi from the office of CS by Article 152(6) of the constitution on the grounds of gross misconduct, violation of the constitution, and incompetence to hold public office, and a legal action against Linturi and other officials for damages incurred by farmers," the society president added.

Why LSK is uncertain about the NSFP

In their statement, LSK expressed its dissatisfaction with the capability of the NFSP to provide fertiliser to farmers in a cost-effective way. Farmers have raised concerns over bureaucratic incompetence, corruption, and delays.

"Whereas the program was initiated to increase efficiency and productivity, while reducing costs and delay, it is proving to be counterproductive in every regard," LSK stated.

Kenyan farmers raise alarm over fake fertiliser

In late March, Kenyan farmers raised concerns about the proliferation of fake fertilisers sold at the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) stores.

This happened even as the CS maintained that his ministry was yet to receive a formal complaint about the alleged fake fertilisers.

What you need to know about fake fertiliser:

• LSK demanded compensation to farmers affected by fake fertiliser
• Kakamega senator Boni Khalwale has asked President William Ruto to order arrest of Linturi
• President Ruto ordered the compensation of farmers affected by fake fertiliser
• The government admitted the presence of fake fertiliser in the country

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.