The Interior and National Coordination Cabinet Secretary (CS), Fred Matiang’i on Tuesday called upon all Kenyans to join the government in the fight against gambling and betting.
Speaking during a meeting with the Muslim leadership in Nairobi, the CS urged Kenyans to be at the forefront in the fight against this vice for the future of country and its children.
The government recently shut down two major betting firms that have been operating in the country.
He said he was satisfied with the ongoing crackdown on gambling machines and betting companies in the country but noted that the war on gambling has not been all smooth though fruits could be seen so far.
“Data shows since we started the crackdown on gambling, change has been seen and I am resolute in stopping it since no country has been built on gambling,” said Dr. Matiang’i.
The National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale emphasized that gambling should be banned completely as it is a threat to national security.
“The Muslim leadership has a role to play in protecting national security and the interest of the people of Kenya,” Duale added.
He further urged all Muslim leaders and Imams to address the issue of gambling and intoxicants in mosques to stop the vice among youths.
The Jamia Mosque Committee Chairman, Abdulatif Esajee said that the Muslim community has strongly asked their believers to stay away from gambling.
“The Government should not only increase penalties for offenders but also focus on the education of young people and control the gambling industry because of its destructive nature,” Esajee said
He further urged the Government to build confidence among Kenyans in the fight against corruption by uprightly fighting it.
The Chairman lauded the Government’s commitment to promoting understanding and collaboration between government and the Muslim community.
By Nancy Marende/ Wangari Ndirangu
