Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has directed a fresh inspection of alcohol manufacturing premises in Kenya to ensure compliance with all applicable standards and regulations. This move is part of the government's efforts to eliminate illicit alcoholic drinks and drugs through strict enforcement of directives and laws. The DP stated that the government is keen to protect Kenyans from consuming prohibited drinks.
The Deputy President made the announcement during a meeting with Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, Police IG Douglas Kanja, and heads of regulatory and enforcement agencies at his official residence in Karen. The meeting aimed to assess the enforcement of various directives and measures to curb the production and distribution of illicit drinks. Prof. Kindiki emphasized the government's commitment to sustaining the war against illicit alcohol and drug abuse to protect public health and secure the nation.
The Deputy President warned against the politicization of the fight against illicit alcohol, urging security agencies to enforce the law despite frustrations by politicians with vested interests. He stressed that security cannot be a political matter and encouraged the security agencies to do their job even when there is political noise. The DP cited the achievements made in national security issues, including the fight against terror and banditry, as examples of the importance of depoliticizing security matters.
As the battle against prohibited liquor intensifies, the Deputy President announced that the regulation of legalized drinks is being relooked at to ensure sale, distribution, and consumption happen within established lawful frameworks. He stated that the licensing of legitimate drinks needs to be controlled to prevent excessive consumption and its implications on the economy. Some counties have begun having their own alcohol-related legislations, and the DP suggested replicating best practices.
The Deputy President will convene a special Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council (IBEC) meeting next month to tighten the collaborative response between the national and county governments. He also asked CS Murkomen to hold a sector forum bringing together key stakeholders in the next two weeks on licensing and control of alcohol trade and consumption. The framework for partnership in establishing and running rehabilitation services will also be discussed.
One of the issues to be considered during the IBEC meeting is the establishment of at least one major rehabilitation center in every county in the next one year. The Deputy President promised relentless pursuit of those trading in the illicit business, warning that tough action will be taken against them. He inspected development projects in Mathira constituency, Nyeri County, and vowed to deal with all those involved in the illicit alcohol trade.
The Deputy President's directive comes as the government intensifies its crackdown on illicit alcohol and drug abuse. He emphasized that the government will continue to deal with all those involved in the illicit alcohol trade, which is harming the health of Kenyans and threatening future generations. The government's efforts aim to protect public health and secure the nation for present and future generations.
Key points
- Deputy President Kithure Kindiki directs fresh inspection of alcohol manufacturing premises to ensure compliance with standards and regulations.
- The government aims to eliminate illicit alcoholic drinks and drugs through strict enforcement of directives and laws.
- The Deputy President warns against politicization of the fight against illicit alcohol, urging security agencies to enforce the law.
