The State Department of Internal Security and National Administration has pushed back against allegations made by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who accused the government of enabling the distribution of illicit and counterfeit alcohol, particularly targeting the Mt. Kenya region.
Government Rebuttal
Speaking after Gachagua’s comments during a church service, PS Omollo criticized the former Deputy President for trivializing the grave issue of substance abuse. Omollo referenced the recent tragedy in Nakuru, where three individuals succumbed to illicit alcohol, to emphasize the widespread harm caused by substance abuse across Kenya.
“We take great exception to such grave national matters being trivialized by one individual, on a church podium nonetheless, without empathy for the families grappling with this crisis,” Omollo stated.
He further refuted the accusations, asserting that government officials, including chiefs and their assistants, are at the forefront of the fight against illicit alcohol, making Gachagua’s claims “inconceivable.”
Licensing of New Alcohol Manufacturers
The government defended its decision to grant 13 new alcohol manufacturing licenses after a rigorous vetting process.
In March 2024, the government launched a 25-point enforcement strategy to crack down on the production and sale of illicit alcohol and narcotics. The initiative included a comprehensive review of 29 active alcohol manufacturers, with only two initially found compliant. The re-vetting process, conducted by a multi-agency team that included NACADA, KEBS, and KRA, led to the approval of 13 additional manufacturers.
PS Omollo reiterated that the government does not produce, distribute, or retail alcoholic beverages, dismissing claims to the contrary as “mischievous and misconceived.”
Call for Responsibility During Festive Season
As the festive season approaches, the PS urged Kenyans to play a proactive role in addressing alcohol-related harm in their communities. He outlined several measures to combat substance abuse:
- Leaders should create awareness and provide support within their communities.
- Communities must hold each other accountable for preventing substance abuse.
- Families and friends should discourage drinking and driving.
- Parents should restrict alcohol access to underage children in homes.
- Citizens are encouraged to report the sale of illicit alcohol to authorities.
Omollo invited Gachagua to provide evidence to the relevant investigative agencies if his intentions are genuinely aimed at protecting lives.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to fighting illicit alcohol while ensuring that licensed manufacturers comply with regulatory standards.
