NYERI, Kenya, Jan 22 – Tea farmers from Mt Kenya region want the government to prosecute Kenya Tea Development Authority directors behind the plunder of millions of shillings even as it moves to implement new tea regulations.
Speaking during a meeting to sensitize farmers on new regulations farmers said that although they fully support the move, it would be counterproductive to let those behind their loss go scot-free.
“As farmers, we are delighted by the new regulations but we would appreciate if directors who have stolen our funds be brought to book through prosecution in the court of law so that we can recover what is rightfully ours,” said Patrick Ndirangu a lawyer and a tea farmer in Chinga.
Ndirangu who has offered to represent farmers in court said that no stone should be left unturned in ensuring the rights of farmers are protected.
“Most of those who are behind mega deals at KTDA are well known. Why should they be left to enjoy farmers sweat? They belong to jails courtesy of corruption courts,” said Ndirangu.
Peter Mwangi another farmer said that many of the current directors are bragging that even if they are voted out courtesy of new rules they will continue with their good lifestyle while many farmers will toil in their farms.
Early this year President Uhuru Kenyatta sighed into law the new regulations which give farmers sweeping powers on the management of the crop.
Among the new guidelines is elections of directors through “one man one vote ” which may see many of current directors voted out.
