The Rastafarian community is gearing up for what could be a landmark legal battle to legalise the use of bhang in Kenya, following a petition challenging the country’s strict cannabis laws.
The High Court on November 28, 2025, granted the Attorney General extra time to file responses in a case brought by the Rastafari Society of Kenya (RSK), which seeks to overturn laws criminalising the use of marijuana.
The matter was due for a hearing last week, but state counsel requested a postponement, sparking frustration from the petitioners.
Lawyer Shadrack Wambui, representing the RSK, argued before the court that repeated delays by the government were stalling a case that has been pending since 2021.
“You issued clear directions that this matter be heard today. This is an old case, and my clients have travelled from various parts of the country. They seek an audience, not victimisation,” Wambui told the judges.
The petition claims that laws prohibiting private cannabis use infringe on the constitutional rights of Rastafarians, particularly their freedom of religion.
For members of the community, bhang is not just a recreational drug but a sacred element of spiritual practice.
Rastafarian Brian Mwanza explains the religious use of the chalice outside Milimani Law Courts after petitioning to legalize cannabis in Kenya for prayer and sacramental purposes only.
pic.twitter.com/5e2v9IblTI— KENYA GOSSIP HUB (@kenyasgossips) November 18, 2025
The court granted the adjournment, setting the next hearing for January 12, 2025, while maintaining March 12, 2026, as the date for delivering judgment.
Despite the petition being filed four years ago, the government has yet to submit its official response.
If successful, the case could set a historic precedent in Kenya, potentially recognising the spiritual use of cannabis under religious freedom laws.
For now, Rastafarians and legal experts alike are watching closely as the country edges toward a decision that could reshape the legal landscape surrounding marijuana.
