President William Ruto has announced that his government is planning to introduce a tough new law that could see people involved in drug trafficking and illicit alcohol trade sentenced to death.
Speaking on Saturday, January 3, during an engagement ceremony in Uasin Gishu County, the President said the proposed law would make drug and substance abuse-related crimes a capital offence, punishable by hanging.
He said the move is aimed at ending the destruction caused by drugs in Kenyan families and communities.
Ruto defended his tough stance, saying he is ready to face any consequences that may come from pushing for stricter laws. According to the President, the government can no longer tolerate drug dealers who continue to harm young people and destroy livelihoods.
The Head of State explained that the new law will mainly target individuals involved in selling illicit alcohol and hard drugs such as heroin and cocaine. He noted that current laws are too weak to deter drug traffickers.
Ruto revealed that under the existing legal framework, a person found selling hard drugs can walk free after paying a fine of Ksh1 million. He said this penalty is not enough and has allowed the illegal drug trade to thrive.
“We are changing that law. If you are caught selling drugs, you will be hanged,” the President stated.
He added that many families are suffering because of drug abuse, and firm action is needed to restore order and protect future generations.
The President also said the proposed law, which will be presented in Parliament, will allow the government to confiscate assets linked to drug trafficking. These include vehicles, houses, and other properties bought using money from the illegal drug trade.
Ruto urged Members of Parliament to support the bill, saying Kenya is facing a serious crisis. According to him, close to five million Kenyans are affected by drug and substance abuse, making the issue a national emergency.
This announcement comes shortly after Ruto revealed plans to establish a new Anti-Narcotics Unit within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The unit will be specially trained and equipped to fight organised drug networks across the country.
The President explained that the unit will work alongside NACADA and will not replace it. It will be equipped with modern surveillance, intelligence, forensic, and financial investigation tools to strengthen the fight against drugs.
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