CS Linturi considered most responsible for poor quality subsidized fertilizer – TIFA

Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi is considered responsible for poor-quality subsidized fertilizer, a survey by Trends and Insights For Africa (TIFA) has revealed.

According to a survey by TIFA, a majority of Kenyans, specifically 53% of respondents, hold him accountable for this problem.

Linturi responsible

The report also highlights that uncertainty exists among some respondents, with 17% unsure about who should be held responsible.

"Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi is considered the most responsible for the poor-quality (if not “fake”) subsidized fertilizer, with more than half (53%) of those respondents aware of the programme blaming him," the TIFA report stated.

"However, nearly one-fifth of these respondents (17%) are not sure who is mostly to blame. (Note: Data collection was completed just before the arrest of three senior NCPB officials on the basis of initial EACC investigations; they have now spent two nights in the cells. It cannot be estimated how, if at all, these results would have changed had this action been taken earlier.)," TIFA added.

Furthermore, the TIFA report indicates that Linturi has been ranked as the worst-performing CS in a recent poll, receiving a low score of E with only 25% approval.

The survey was carried out between April 27 and 29 and it involved 2,912 respondents from nine zones across Kenya, with telephonic interviews conducted mainly in Kiswahili and English.

This poor rating coincides with mounting pressure from MPs who have signed a petition calling for his dismissal over the fake fertilizer scandal.

The motion for Linturi's removal is based on allegations of gross misconduct, mismanagement of resources, and violation of the constitution, particularly concerning the procurement and distribution of fake fertilizer by the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB).

Push for Linturi removal

An agency agreement for the supply and distribution of misrepresented chemical fertilizer has been cited.

The National Assembly Committee on Agriculture also recommended Linturi's dismissal in light of the recent fertilizer scam. Several Members of Parliament assert that Linturi cannot evade responsibility in the controversial fertilizer scandal.

A motion for his removal is already being discussed in parliament.