- The MP said the bill aims to cure the drug menace which has found its roots in rural parts of the country, putting the lives of millions of youth in danger.
- In the draft bill, the legislator has proposed cancellation of licenses for entertainment joints and clubs found selling shisha.
Image: HANDOUT
Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda has drafted a bill aimed at criminalising shisha and vape in the country.
Jhanda said it is set to be tabled for the First Reading in the National Assembly.
The MP said the bill aims to cure the drug menace which has found its roots in rural parts of the country, putting the lives of millions of youth in danger.
In the bill, the MP has proposed a Sh5 million fine or 2 years jail term for those manufacturing, distributing, selling or consuming it.
The legislator at the same time proposes cancellation of licenses for entertainment joints and clubs found selling shisha.
“This is a menace that is taking a toll order on our youths and as leaders we have to come up with a solution to either drown or save the region. Over 70 per cent of the population in the country is young people," he said.
"I’m saddened by what is going on in regards to shisha and vape, it has become a horrible menace where young people are consuming and it has found its way to the villages.”
The legislator added that vape has also found its way into schools and the bill will help to criminalise the usage and consumption of the drug.
He said leaders will do everything possible to do away with the drug despite of outcry from Kenyans.
“People are asking me why I’m doing this, as a leader I cannot see the country going haywire as young people misuse the drugs and we just keep quiet. It is a menace that it is affecting our country and we will do it (eradicate the drug),” he said.
The development comes at a time Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is leading efforts to combat drug and illicit liquor use in the country in a bid to safeguard the country's young population.
Jhanda said that he will be seeking Gachagua’s and other government officials' support in fighting the illicit drugs.
The legislator expressed confidence saying the bill will sail through in Parliament because it is about the young people and not political affiliation.
Gachagua has on several occasions reiterated that the fight against illicit alcohol and drugs will not relent and warned dealers that they have nowhere to hide.
The DP assured security officers involved in the crackdown that the government will protect them and is fully behind them in the war to eradicate toxic liquor and drugs.