The High Court has certified as urgent a petition challenging provisions of Kenya’s new gambling and betting regulatory framework.

The case targets sections of the Gambling Control Act and related regulations, with petitioners questioning the legality and constitutionality of some licensing, regulatory and operational requirements imposed on betting companies.

The court has directed parties to file responses and submissions as the challenge proceeds.

The outcome could have major implications for betting operators, regulators and the government because the new framework was intended to tighten control of an industry that has grown rapidly and become an important source of tax revenue.