The Rastafari Society of Kenya has moved to court seeking orders restraining the police from allegedly harassing its members and conducting searches of their homes without warrants.
Appearing before High Court Judge Bahati Mwamuye, the group complained that law enforcement officers have been illegally invading their residences as the case seeking the legalization of marijuana in Kenya proceeds.
The petitioners, represented by lawyers led by Danstan Omari and Shadrack Wambui, told the court that police harassment has persisted despite the matter being actively before the High Court.
Claims of Harassment and Court Access Denial
The Rastafari Society also asked the court to restrain security officers at Milimani Law Courts from allegedly denying its members access to court during hearings.
Justice Mwamuye acknowledged the complaints but declined to issue a blanket order against the police.
However, the judge warned that any arrest of witnesses aimed at interfering with the proceedings would attract serious consequences.
“If a witness is arrested with the intention of interfering with this case, then there will be consequences,” Justice Mwamuye cautioned.
No Marijuana to Be Brought to Court
The court directed the petitioners not to bring marijuana or related paraphernalia into the courtroom.
Instead, the judge ordered that photographs of the alleged spiritual items and artifacts be produced as exhibits.
“The petitioners are granted leave to file and serve a further affidavit annexing pictures of spiritual objects and artifacts or any other items they wish to rely on as photographic evidence,” the court ruled.
The judge also reminded the petitioners to comply with the legal requirements governing the production of electronic evidence.
Hearing Postponed Due to Absence of NACADA Lawyer
The matter, which had been scheduled for hearing, did not proceed due to the absence of counsel representing the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).
Justice Mwamuye directed that the case be heard on March 13, 2026, and further ordered that judgment will be delivered on May 27, 2026.
No More Delays, Court Warns
The judge issued a firm warning against further delays, stating that no additional adjournments would be entertained.
“This is a 2021 matter affecting a large number of persons and it ought to be concluded as quickly as possible,” Justice Mwamuye said.
