Former Kenyan Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has praised Rigathi Gachagua, the current Deputy President, for his efforts in combating illicit liquor in the Mt Kenya region. Kuria noted that Gachagua played a significant role in addressing the issue during his tenure as Deputy President. He made these remarks after witnessing a funeral procession of a woman reportedly killed by illicit liquor. Kuria expressed his admiration for Gachagua's commitment to tackling the problem.
However, Kuria also criticized Gachagua's political decisions, questioning his willingness to tackle the issue as Deputy President. Kuria highlighted that Gachagua had made significant strides in addressing the problem during his previous tenure. He stated that Gachagua was vigorous in his efforts to combat illicit liquor in the Mt Kenya region. Kuria's comments come amid concerns about the resurgence of illicit liquor in the region.
Kuria sought to separate Gachagua's efforts in combating illicit liquor from his overall performance in politics. He expressed disagreement with Gachagua's approach to making political decisions, stating that the former Deputy President had a history of making decisions that did not benefit the local population. Kuria and Gachagua have a long history, having served together in the 12th Parliament and in government.
Despite his criticisms, Kuria emphasized that Gachagua had made significant progress in addressing the issue of illicit liquor. He acknowledged that Gachagua had taken concrete steps to combat the problem during his tenure as Deputy President. Kuria's comments highlight the complexities of addressing the issue of illicit liquor in the region.
Since leaving office, Gachagua has continued to raise concerns about the issue of illicit liquor in the Mt Kenya region. He has stated that the efforts he initiated to combat the problem have declined since he left office. In February 2025, Gachagua noted that the illicit liquor trade had resurged in the region, despite initial successes in curbing it.
The issue of illicit liquor has significant implications for public health and safety in the region. The deaths resulting from its consumption have raised concerns among local residents and leaders. Efforts to combat the problem have been ongoing, with various stakeholders calling for a collaborative approach to address the issue.
The debate on how to effectively address the issue of illicit liquor is ongoing, with different stakeholders proposing various solutions. Kuria's comments have reignited the conversation, highlighting the need for a sustained effort to combat the problem. The government and other stakeholders face the challenge of finding a lasting solution to the issue.
Key points
- Moses Kuria praises Rigathi Gachagua for his efforts in combating illicit liquor in the Mt Kenya region.
