The leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), Rigathi Gachagua, has announced plans to shut down 53 companies accused of manufacturing and distributing illicit alcohol in Kenya. During a diaspora caucus in Dallas, Texas, Gachagua put the companies on notice, claiming they are selling products that are claiming lives and putting the country's youth at risk. He alleged that some of these companies bribe senior government officials to remain operational.
Gachagua, the former Deputy President, made the remarks in the context of the 2027 General Election, stating that if the United Opposition wins, his government will take firm action against the manufacturers. He emphasized that the fight against illicit alcohol and hard drugs will be intensified, with a goal to shut down the 53 companies within a month of assuming office. Gachagua urged the owners of these companies to make the most of their time before the election.
The DCP leader previously claimed that the resurgence of illicit alcohol in Central Kenya following his removal from office was a plot by the government to destroy the region's youth. He alleged that the prevalence of the harmful brews was a deliberate plan to reduce voter numbers in the region. Gachagua had spearheaded campaigns against illicit alcohol in the region during his tenure as deputy president.
Gachagua blamed the current administration for neglecting the fight against illicit alcohol, stating that the government is failing the people who voted it into office. He claimed that the return of the brews has worsened the social and economic situation in Central Kenya. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo criticized Gachagua, stating that serious national matters like the problem of drugs and substance abuse should not be trivialized.
Omollo expressed concern that Gachagua's comments were made on a church podium without empathy for the families struggling with the crisis. He also questioned the feasibility of Gachagua's accusations, given that government officials involved in the fight against illicit alcohol are part of their communities. The issue of illicit alcohol has sparked a heated debate between Gachagua and the current administration.
Gachagua's vow to shut down the 53 companies has significant implications for the 2027 General Election. His stance on illicit alcohol has been a long-standing one, and he has consistently emphasized the need for a firm approach to tackling the problem. The opposition's plans to address the issue have not been detailed, but Gachagua's comments suggest a comprehensive approach.
The threat to shut down the 53 companies has raised questions about the potential impact on the economy and the livelihoods of those employed in the industry. Gachagua's comments have also sparked a wider conversation about the role of government in regulating the manufacturing and distribution of alcohol. The issue is likely to remain a contentious one in the lead-up to the 2027 General Election.
Key points
- Rigathi Gachagua vows to shut down 53 companies manufacturing illicit brews if United Opposition wins 2027 General Election.
- Gachagua alleges that some companies bribe senior government officials to remain operational.
- The issue of illicit alcohol has sparked a heated debate between Gachagua and the current administration.
