Former Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo has asked investigative agencies to quickly look into claims of a major sugar scandal said to be worth about KSh3 billion.
In a statement on Friday, Owalo called on the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to start investigations without delay.
The claims, first reported by The Standard, suggest that sugar meant for industrial use may have been repackaged and sold in the market for human consumption.
As per the information provided by the media, sugar was initially imported as raw material for industrial usage but then somehow ended up in the shops.
Owalo stated that if the allegation is confirmed, it will not only be an economic problem but it also involves the safety of Kenyans.
“It cannot be used directly by anyone if it is industrial and unless it is processed, which makes it fit for consumption,” Owalo stated.
He also warned that this product would be hazardous for consumers while the regulatory authorities in the sector would be failing if the allegation becomes true.
Owalo further accused some influential individuals of bringing this matter to the surface and expressed worry over their role in this regard.
He also demanded for an investigation to be carried out immediately.
At the same time, he asked the regulatory bodies like KRA, KEBS, and the Ministry of Health to act fast in getting rid of suspicious sugar from the market.
According to him, the issue might also affect local producers of sugar because such measures distort the market and give unfair competition to other legitimate businesses.
Mr Owalo appealed to Kenyans to be careful about the sugar they purchase due to the ongoing investigations.
Up to the time of writing, there was no response from KEBS regarding the claims made against the organization.