A man smoking bhang. A petition seeking to legalise bhang in Kenya has left the Senate sharply divided. [Photo/thecannabist.com]
A section of Senators now want the House to discuss a petition seeking to legalise bhang in Kenya.
A researcher, writer and political analyst Sammy Gwada Ogot has petitioned the Senate to discriminalise use of Cannabis Sativa and its derivatives in the country.
On Friday, Senate Speaker Kenneth Lusaka confirmed the receipt of the petition which has sharply divided the House.
Senators Isaac Mwaura (Nominated), Fred Outa (Kisumu), George Khaniri (Vihiga), Ledama Ole Kina (Narok) and Stewart Madzayo (Kilifi) has supported the discussion of the petition, saying Ogot should be given an opportunity to support his case.
"Let's use this chance to invite experts to explain findings that marijuana is medicinal. Let's carry research and if it is proved that it is therapeutic, there will be no reason we should not adopt it," said Kina as quoted by Nation.
Mwaura noted the drug thas been legalised by many states in the US adding it was worth investigating that it could be used for medicinal and industrial purposes.
However Bungoma Senator Moses Wetang'ula and his Kisii counterpart Sam Ongeri opposed the petition, arguing bhang contributed to anti-social behaviour.
"The House should not spend time discussing something that is illegal," said Wetang'ula.
Ongeri said users of bhang live in a world of false confidence as they believe they can do anything.
"It will be wrong for the House to entertain the debate because this substance has destroyed young people," said the Senator.
If the petition turns into law, it will mean that bhang will be removed from narcotic drugs listed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1994.
Those serving jail terms for possessing or using it will be set free.