Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Karanja Kibicho, said the crackdown of illicit brew is ongoing and will spare no illegal brewers and users.
Speaking in Gathuthini Primary School in Ndia Constituency, Kibicho said that a multi-agency team that was launched in Thika under Rapid Result Initiative (RRI), consisting of National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO), NACADA and police officers will be strict.
The PS was responding to issues raised by parents in their first meeting since the outbreak of Covid-19 which inhibits public gatherings. Parents were concerned about increase in the number of bars and production of illicit brew that is destroying the youths, but also pose danger to the young pupils.
Kibicho noted a challenge in legal terms as some bars are issued with licenses by devolved government units, which are likely to protect them from facing the law.
“Remember we have gaps in the law giving county governments the power to license bars, some have taken advantage of this to run illegal businesses,” he noted. “They are putting revenues first over the health of the people,” he said.
Kibicho said despite the gaps the government cannot sit back and allow brewers to destroy the youth with illicit brews.
“However, we shall enforce the NACADA laws, stating when and how bars operate and the standards required,” he stressed.
He added that teenage pregnancies should not be entertained and all those involved will face the law.
“Those impregnating pupils, it is a serious offence and those involved should be sentenced for life,” Kibicho warned.
The PS also urged youths to be vigilant in this era of politics not to be hoodwinked by politicians. On the other hand, he called politicians and all those in leadership positions to do civic education on the importance of registration and voting.
“As you know this is time for politics, it has already started. I call upon those involved, to do civic education on registration and the importance of voting.
By Mutai Kipngetich
