The Rastafari Society of Kenya has asked the court to issue orders restraining the police from harassing them and searching their homes without a warrant.
Appearing before Justice Bahati Mwamuye in a case where the group is seeking legalization of Marijuana (weed) in the country, the applicants stated that the police have been illegally invading their homes.
Through their lawyers led by Danstan Omari, Sheria Mtaani founder Shadrack Wambui and others, the group also asked the court to restrain the security officers at Milimani Law Courts from denying them entry during court proceedings.
Justice Mwamuye noted the issues and ruled that he did not want to give a blanket order to the police.
However, the judge added that if a witness in the case is arrested by police in a effort to interfere with the case, then there will be consequences.
The applicants were also requested not to bring marijuana or other paraphernalia to court. Instead, they were ordered to print the photos of the exhibits and produce them in court.
“The petitioners are granted leave to file and serve a further affidavit annexing pictures of spiritual objects and artifacts or any other items that they would wish to adduce as photographic evidence/exhibits and the petitioners are reminded as to the requirements for the production of electronic evidence,” the judge said.
The matter was coming up for hearing but failed to proceed due to the absence of the counsel for NACADA.
The judge directed the matter to be heard on 13th March 2026 adding that the judgement will be delivered on 27th May 2026.
Further, Justice Mwamuye noted that the timelines given shall not be varied and no further adjournments shall be admitted.
“The court reminds all the parties and counsels herein that this is a 2021 matter affecting a large number of persons and thus ought to be concluded as quickly as possible,” the judge said.
