High Court Suspends Talanta Hela Council, Technical Committees

The High Court on Monday suspended the establishment of the Talanta Hela Council and its technical committees, which were set up by President William Ruto and Youth Affairs, Sports and Arts Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba.

The court’s decision came in response to a petition filed by creative enthusiast Charles Mugane, who challenged the legality of the council’s establishment and the appointments of its members.

In his petition, Mugane argued that the council was established in violation of the Constitution, as it did not provide for public participation in its formation. He also alleged that the appointments of the members of the council were made in a discriminatory manner, as they did not take into account the principle of merit.

The court agreed with Mugane’s arguments and suspended the establishment of the council and its technical committees pending the determination of the case.

The court’s decision is a major setback for the government’s efforts to revitalize the creative industry. The Talanta Hela Council was supposed to play a key role in this effort by identifying and nurturing talent at the grassroots level.

The court’s decision also raises questions about the government’s commitment to the principles of public participation, transparency and accountability. The government’s decision to establish the Talanta Hela Council without any public input and to appoint its members in a discriminatory manner is a clear violation of these principles.

The court’s decision is a victory for the creative community and for all Kenyans who believe in the importance of public participation, transparency and accountability. It is a reminder that the government cannot simply ignore the rule of law and the principles of good governance.