Trade and Investment Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria on Monday, June 12, issued an ultimatum to all alcohol sellers and manufacturers and set the new price limit for wines and spirits at Ksh250, regardless of the quantity.
Speaking in Tharaka Nithi, Kuria stated that anyone found selling a 250ml bottle of alcohol below the price limit will be treated as a suspect and arrested with immediate effect.
The CS noted that he had issued a recommendation to the National Assembly Finance Committee that would ensure that the law is properly enforced.
"I want to instruct all the local authorities if you find any wine and spirit that is 250ml being sold at less than Ksh250, that alcohol should be considered illicit. Nobody should give an excuse that they did not know because now all of you know.
"I have, therefore, given the Finance Committee a recommendation to ensure that the wines and spirits are not sold below that cost price," he stated.
The CS explained that the price ought not to be below Ksh250 because of the additional costs including the excise stamps that he detailed.
Additionally, he noted that the purchase of the stamps was pre-paid and there was, therefore, those who sold at a cheaper price were involved in illegal activities including the use of fake stamps.
“We have done our math and we know that no such amount of alcohol should be sold at that price. That person selling the alcohol should be treated as a suspect with immediate effect.
"Right now there is an excise stamp and the law states clearly that the stamp is pre-paid. I can calculate for you the amount that is used for the stamps when all the excise duty is included," he added.
To consumers who will think that the amount was too expensive, the CS called them to consume other beverages including milk. He added that the list of new prices would be published from time to time.
"I know you think that it will be expensive but if you think Ksh250 is expensive then you should drink milk. I am saying something that is scientifically verifiable," stated Kuria.
While speaking at the same event, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki announced a crackdown on alcohol manufacturers, distributors and sellers across the country.
Additionally, he noted that the government would increase funding for the National Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA) to ensure results are realised in the war against alcohol abuse in the country, especially among the youth.
