Interior CS Fred Matiangi’s directive to ban celebrities from participating in gambling advertisement has been dealt a huge blow after the High Court suspended the move.
The ban had been put in place by the Betting Control and Licensing Board in a bid to curb addiction on gambling and betting.
According to BCLB, celebrities were bared from endorsing gambling operations as well as advertising the vice between 6a.m and 10pm.
However, Justice James Makau issued the order after an artist moved to court claiming that his source of livelihood and that of others like him had been interfered with.
“Pending the hearing and determination of this case, a conservatory order is issued staying the implementation of the decision by the BCLB issued on April 30 touching on advertisement and endorsement of betting, lottery, gaming and prize competitions,” said Justice Makau.
In a directive issued on April 30, by the ministry of interior and coordination the board banned various forms of betting and gambling advertising that have been helping firms woo clients.
They include outdoor and social media adverts, TV ads from 6am to 10pm, and endorsement of bets and their firms by celebrities.
The ban was to be effected as of May 30, and had stopped outdoor advertisements of gambling and advertising on social media.
Promoting for gaming and betting is the second biggest income source to the media business. The affiliation mourns that the confinements will majorly affect incomes to the segment.
The suit was filed by Mr Kamau Wanjohi, AKA MC Moreydoc. He sued the betting board, its chairman Cyrus Maina and Chief executive officer Liti Wambua and the Attorney General for making the irrational decision.
He argues that the ban was issued without having public participation and that the use of the word of a celebrity in the directive is vague.
Celebrities have been granted a leeway to continue endorsing gambling and betting kind of advertisements.
