Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has ordered a crackdown on illicit liquor in the country.
During the launch of a bursary programme in Murang’a on Thursday, January 26, the second-in-command noted that illicit brews were a burgeoning menace that needed to be addressed promptly.
He called on provincial administrators to work with county governments in the war against illegal brewing and consumption of illegal liquor.
In the new crackdown, chiefs, sub-chiefs and regional commanders will forge a partnership to tackle the growing menace, especially in rural areas.
Gachagua reminded the administrative officers to shun politics and instead focus on their mandate of maintaining order in their respective jurisdictions.
County governments will also review the procedures and regulations for licensing bars and pubs at the county level.
"We shall not accept a situation where youths are being killed or become unproductive because of consumption of illicit alcohol.
The administrators must eradicate alcoholism and drug abuse. The Ruto Administration will not negotiate on this unfortunate matter," Gachagua stated.
The declaration by the DP came days after President William Ruto addressed similar concerns while launching an affordable housing project in Ruiru, Kiambu County.
While addressing the function, Ruto urged local leaders to focus on eliminating the vice after complaints from a section of elected leaders.
"The provision administration must work with the county governments to make sure that we do not sacrifice our children and our society," he stated.
The National Police Service has also intesified crackdown on illegal brewers notorious for using fake Kenya Revenue Authority stamps to sell liquor products to unsuspecting customers.
