By Ebi Kesiena
A Kenyan lawmaker has introduced a bill to reinstate price controls on essential goods, including staple foods and pharmaceutical products, as the country grapples with a severe cost-of-living crisis.
The proposed legislation comes in the wake of nearly weekly anti-government protests, which have pressured President William Ruto to abandon plans for new taxes and reshuffle his cabinet.
“This bill seeks to amend the Price Control (Essential Goods) Act, 2011, to regulate the prices of essential commodities, ensuring their availability at reasonable prices for all Kenyans, especially low-income earners,” stated Senator Tabitha Mutinda in the draft bill.
If enacted, the law would mandate the National Treasury to set minimum and maximum retail and wholesale prices for key essentials such as corn, wheat, rice, cooking fat, sugar, and certain prescription drugs.
The ongoing protests, which began in mid-June, were initially sparked by the introduction of new taxes aimed at increasing domestic revenue in line with an International Monetary Fund program. The unrest has resulted in at least 61 deaths.
Meanwhile, Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli has warned that the planned anti-government demonstrations slated for Thursday could be infiltrated by goons.
He said the infiltration of criminal elements in the Gen Z-led protests dubbed ‘NaneNaneMarch’ is a threat to the country’s security.
Masengeli, however, said they have mobilised enough security personnel to deal with any eventualities.
“Already, our intelligence reports indicate that there are heightened security threats to the country, with criminals planning to infiltrate tomorrow’s demonstrations and commit further crimes,” he said.
“In anticipation, we have ensured adequate deployment of security personnel. However, members of public are advised to take extra caution while in crowded areas that are likely to turn riotous,” he added.
