Alcohol manufacturer Patiala Distillers Limited has formally denied allegations linking Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to its ownership. The company's legal team, led by advocate Danstan Omari, announced plans to pursue those spreading the allegations through legal channels. Omari stated that Kindiki does not own any shares in Patiala Distillers and is neither involved in the ownership nor management of the firm. This response comes after social media claims suggested a connection between Kindiki and the company.
Patiala Distillers specifically named Senators John Methu and Karungo Thang'wa as targets of planned demand notices over their public claims linking the company to Kindiki. In a viral video, Thang'wa was heard addressing Kindiki directly, stating that he was aware of Kindiki's alleged involvement with the company. The company's legal team warned that demand notices would be issued to those making the allegations and cautioned politicians against using Patiala Distillers to score political points.
The company also denied allegations of producing counterfeit or illicit alcohol, particularly in the Mount Kenya region. Patiala Distillers officials, including Mugiira Ntiga, Peter Kaimba, and Felix Odongo, stated that authentic products can be identified through packaging, labels, seals, and excise stamps. They urged the public to purchase only from reputable outlets, emphasizing that their products are authentic and that counterfeit goods bearing their name are not their products.
Patiala Distillers operates under licenses and approvals issued by the Kenya Revenue Authority, the Kenya Bureau of Standards, and NACADA. The company produces several brands, including Best, Diamond Ice, Flying Horse, and Best Gin. This controversy emerges at a sensitive moment for Kenya's alcohol industry, with Kindiki announcing fresh inspections for all alcohol manufacturers, including those with valid licenses.
The government's move to inspect alcohol manufacturers comes amid parliamentary concerns over adulterated drinks. Lawmakers had previously sought details on the licensing and testing of several Patiala products. In 2024, Patiala Distillers went to court after some of its brands were seized and destroyed, with subsequent proceedings challenging the banning of Diamond Ice and Flying Horse products.
Patiala Distillers' products carry verifiable packaging, seals, and excise stamps, making it difficult for counterfeit products to go undetected. The company's commitment to operating independently of political affiliations and not being used as a vehicle for political interests has been emphasized by its legal team.
The company is set to face legal battles with Senators Methu and Thang'wa, who have made public claims about Kindiki's alleged involvement with Patiala Distillers. With the government's increased scrutiny of the alcohol industry, Patiala Distillers must navigate these challenges while maintaining its operations and reputation.
Key points
- Patiala Distillers Limited denies ownership links to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
- The company threatens legal action against politicians making claims about Kindiki's involvement.
- Patiala Distillers also denies allegations of producing counterfeit or illicit alcohol.
