The 2027 presidential candidate Eliud Owalo has raised alarm over reports that industrial sugar meant for manufacturing may have been diverted into Kenya’s retail market for direct human consumption, warning of serious public health and regulatory implications.
Owalo said the concerns follow revelations published by The Standard Newspaper on April 17, 2026, which alleged that consignments of industrial sugar had entered the domestic market.
“If confirmed, this would not merely be a regulatory lapse but a matter of grave national concern,” Owalo said in a statement, warning that such actions could expose consumers to unsafe products while eroding trust in oversight institutions.
Industrial sugar, he said, is imported strictly for manufacturing purposes and is not intended for household consumption unless it undergoes required legal, technical and safety processes under Kenya’s regulatory framework.
Owalo emphasized that Kenya’s sugar sector is governed by the Sugar Act, which provides for licensing, importation, quality assurance and market control to protect consumers and legitimate businesses.
He said any deliberate diversion of industrial sugar into the retail market would amount to a serious violation of the law and raise questions about enforcement failures.
Owalo called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to launch thorough investigations and urged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission to probe any involvement of public officials.
He said evidence should lead to swift arrests and prosecutions without interference.
He also urged agencies including the Kenya Revenue Authority, Kenya Bureau of Standards and the Ministry of Health to identify, seize and remove suspected consignments from circulation.
Owalo warned that beyond health risks, the alleged diversion could distort markets, undermine fair competition and harm lawful traders and local sugarcane farmers.
He called for strict enforcement of regulations and penalties for violators, including possible license revocation for importers and distributors found culpable.
The issue, he said, reflects broader concerns about institutional integrity, import controls and regulatory oversight, urging reforms including independent audits and improved tracking systems for industrial sugar.
“There must be no sacred cows,” Owalo said, adding that anyone found endangering public health must be held accountable regardless of status.
He urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and report suspicious sugar products, saying public cooperation would be critical in protecting consumers.
Owalo described the situation as a defining moment for accountability, calling for swift action to restore public trust and uphold the rule of law.
