Kenya: Tobacco Firms Must Follow New Rules

Source from:  The Star 04/29/2015

Tobacco manufacturers have no option but to comply with the new tougher regulations expected to come into force in June, Health Cabinet Secretary James Macharia has said.

In a letter tabled in court yesterday, he said his ministry has no further role to play in issues relating to the Tobacco Control Regulations 2014.

Macharia declined to supply crucial documents sought by British American Tobacco in the case, in which the firm challenging the new regulations, saying what is being sought is before the National Assembly.

"The regulations were tabled in Parliament on December 11, 2014 and thus they are a matter that has been seized by the National Assembly and the ministry has no further role to play but await the report from Parliament," he said.

In response to the letter, BAT head of legal Simukai Munjanganja said the firm will not comply with the regulations in the absence of the technical information sought.

BAT went to court challenging the new regulations on grounds they are wide, vague and constitute an unnecessary and unjustifiable limitation.

The new regulations bans tobacco manufacturers from putting brand names or trademarks on cigarette packages and wrappers.

They are also required to ensure cigarette packages carry health warnings and pictograms on the front and back respectively.

The pictogram is required to be printed in full colour, contrasting with the background to ensure noticeability while the health warning messages will be printed in black and white. Enditem