By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, January 16 2026 - The Kenyan Government is accused of openly defying court orders by allowing the importation of rice at a time local farmers are struggling to sell their produce.
Kirinyaga Senator Kamau Murango said two shiploads of imported rice, weighing about 70 tonnes, were recently brought into the country despite an existing court directive stopping such imports.
Addressing the media on Friday while flanked by Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina and Baragwi MCA David Mathenge, the senator termed the move illegal and insensitive to the plight of farmers in Mwea.
“It is unfortunate that only a few days ago the government went ahead to import rice even though there is a court order halting any importation until the matter is heard and determined,” Murango said.
He disclosed that local leaders had sought further legal intervention and obtained fresh orders stopping the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) from clearing the consignment.
“We went back to court and secured orders barring KRA from releasing the imported rice. The law must be respected by everyone, including the government,” he said.
The senator maintained that the imports would hurt thousands of rice farmers in Kirinyaga County who are currently harvesting and marketing their produce.
“Our intention is to protect local farmers so that their rice can be sold locally. There is produce already in stores and more in the fields waiting to be harvested,” he said.
Murango accused the national administration of deliberately undermining the agricultural sector in the region.
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“We don’t understand why this regime appears determined to punish rice farmers. Instead of supporting them to boost production, the government is frustrating them,” he said.
He warned that disregarding court orders amounted to criminal conduct.
“Anyone who ignores court orders is a criminal. If the government chooses to act outside the law, then it is behaving no differently from lawbreakers,” he said.
The senator also faulted Kirinyaga leaders allied to President William Ruto for remaining silent on the issue.
“Local leaders are busy popularising UDA politics instead of addressing the real economic problems affecting our people. They have failed to speak up for farmers,” he said.
Murango cautioned that voters would remember such actions in the next General Election.
“They can continue with political chest-thumping, but elections are approaching and the people will make their judgment,” he added.
