Giant cigarette firm British American Tobacco Kenya (BAT) has put immense pressure against a proposed law to control tobacco products usage within Nairobi city.
BAT said during the public hearing on the draft law that it would cause negative “unintended consequences.”
The draft law seeks to have City Hall inspectors enforce the law that restricts smoking in public places
“While we understand the need for sensible regulation, I’m very pleased that so many stakeholders from across the entire supply chain attended the hearing to highlight their personal concerns and the unintended consequences of this,” said BAT Kenya managing director Beverly Spencer-Obatoyinbo in a statement.
Smoking in public is illegal but campaigners fighting tobacco trade have in the recent past petitioned the Ministry of Health to stringently enforce the Tobacco Control Act saying its public health benefits outweigh commercial gains for cigarette makers.
The Nairobi City County Tobacco Bill 2018 which is sponsored by Nairobi Member of County Assembly Charles Thuo criminalises selling of tobacco products for individuals under 18 years.
It also calls for public signage where sale of tobacco products is taking place.
It also bans selling of tobacco in public spaces.
“No person shall smoke or hold a lighted tobacco product in any enclosed or indoor areas or any public space,” it says.
Mr Thuo argues it is meant to promote and safeguard the health of city dwellers.
Should the draft be abolished?