Culprits in fake fertiliser scandal are enemies of the nation - Mudavadi

The "enemies of the nation" behind the fake fertiliser scandal will face severe consequences, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has said, noting it has cost farmers lots of money and jeopardised the food production sector.

In a stern statement on Sunday, Mudavadi warned against the distribution of substandard fertiliser and emphasised the government's determination to thoroughly investigate the matter and ensure the culprits are punished.

“The National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) ... do not delay anymore because you know very well that when you follow the supply and distribution chain properly, you will find out which consignment was brought in by whom and, to be precise, when. Kenyans do not want stories because the answer lies with you, the NCPB,” he told a church service in Bomet.

While noting the gravity of the situation, Mudavadi, also the Foreign minister, declared that individuals jeopardising the country's food production would be treated as "enemies of the nation".

It is time for action, he said, adding that there will be no room for discussions with saboteurs of key sectors of the economy.

“I am speaking directly to the ears and facing the eyes of those culpable. We will make sure the law follows these people so that they are charged in a court of law and prosecuted, in order not to mess up food security," he said.

“The government cannot be putting in place constructive and progressive policies and plans as part of its agenda only for someone with malicious motives to sneak in fake fertiliser in the name of doing business, [eroding] all the gains we have made."

He reiterated that farmers and those in the food production chain must be protected from cartels, ill-motivated brokers and dubious dealings that cost the country a fortune.

While chairing a meeting with the National Development Implementation Committee (NDIC) on Friday, the Prime CS suspended the distribution of fertiliser by the NCPB, pending the conclusion of investigations and the submission of a report to state authorities for further action.

He urged principal secretaries to ensure total adherence to procurement laws, as well as due diligence, to lock out entities that lack integrity and the capacity to deliver quality goods and services.

Mudavadi further noted that the fertiliser scandal is serious as it directly affects the public's lives.

He said that key areas with sensitive, essential commodities, like food production, health, energy and education, which drive the economy and the nation's prosperity, should never be compromised by individuals using shortcuts and tricks.

“The supply chain within the government is traceable so nobody can hide if we propose to do the right kind of follow-up. The government is keen on this and I assure Kenyans that there will be consequences,” he said.

He urged the people of Bomet to continue supporting President William Ruto's work, promising they would reap the benefits.

“I said it would take two to three years for us to start having some relief from the hard decisions we have been making. Many said they were unpopular and painful but I can assure Kenyans that we are within the time frame I predicted and that there is hope," Mudavadi said.

He urged sacrifice, hard work, resilience and commitment for Kenya's economy to turn around and asked politicians to prioritise nation-building and improving the electorate's welfare.