I'm coming for cartels at Kilimo House - Agriculture CS nominee Karanja

The Agriculture Cabinet Secretary nominee Andrew Karanja has sent a stern warning to cartels within the Agriculture Ministry.

Speaking during his vetting session at County Hall, Parliament Buildings, Karanja on Friday said that the cartels in Kilimo House will soon be out of business.

"I know dealing with cartels is a big issue and there are many formats and forms, but if approved by this committee, I am giving a notice to cartels that they will be out of business in the fact that one of the principles that I hold very dear is integrity not to be compromised," he told the MPs.

Karanja said that he holds the farmers' interests close to his heart and will do whatever it takes to protect them.

As a result, the MP vowed to put in place governance systems and structures and involve all relevant government agencies.

"I am sure the government is capable and has systems that can deal with these cartels," Karanja added.

Karanja stated that, if the committee approves, he will work diligently to eliminate cartels, aiming to ensure that farmers receive high-quality products. This is in response to last season's issues where farmers were allegedly given counterfeit fertiliser.

"Cartels thrive where there is lack of competition and openness, I will make sure there is openness and the integrity is maintained," he emphasised.

He also mentioned that he plans to establish a governance framework to oversee the procurement and distribution of fertilizers through government agencies like the Kenya Bureau of Standards, ensuring that the highest standards are upheld.

During his vetting, Karanja addressed the perceived relations with former CS Mithika Linturi.

He told the MPs that he had never been a personal assistant to Linturi as claimed.

"This one caught me by surprise. For the record Mr Speaker sir and honourable members, I have never met the former minister for Agriculture and I have never been a personal assistant," Karanja said.

After his nomination by President Ruto, it was alleged that Karanja was the PA to Linturi.