The Rastafari Society of Kenya has once again pushed for formal recognition of its faith and the decriminalisation of cannabis, as the High Court set new hearing dates for their long-running constitutional case.
The group maintains that cannabis is central to their religious practice and argues that criminalising it violates their rights to worship, privacy, and equal treatment. Their lawyers are asking the court to acknowledge the group as a legitimate faith community and to suspend sections of the law that prohibit cannabis use.
Outside the courtroom, members gathered in traditional attire, singing and chanting as they called for respect for their beliefs. One representative questioned why their spiritual practices continue to face police action while other cultural groups enjoy constitutional protection.
Their legal team, led by advocates Shadrack Wambui and Danstan Omari, said Rastafarians are simply seeking the same freedoms granted to other communities.
The High Court has scheduled the petition to be heard on January 14 and 15, 2026. The society hopes the case will move them closer to formal recognition and allow cannabis to be used legally during religious ceremonies.
The petition, first filed in 2021, challenges sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act, arguing that arresting Rastafarians for growing or using cannabis infringes on their rights. The group has also asked the Chief Justice to consider appointing a larger bench, saying the case raises important constitutional questions.
