Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has ordered the immediate closure of all drinking joints in the county, citing rampant fraud and corruption in the issuance of licenses to bar owners.
Waiguru made the announcement on Saturday, February 17, 2024, during a meeting with the county security team and the liquor licensing board at the county headquarters.
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| Governor Anne Waiguru |
She said that she had received numerous complaints from the public and the religious leaders about the proliferation of bars and alcoholism in the county, which had contributed to increased crime, domestic violence, and social ills.
She also revealed that some unscrupulous officials had been colluding with bar owners to issue them with fake or expired licenses, or to charge them exorbitant fees for renewal.
She said that the county government had decided to suspend the operations of all bars and liquor outlets in the county, and to launch a thorough verification and variation exercise of their permits.
She said that the exercise would involve inspecting the premises, checking the validity of the licenses, and ensuring compliance with the county laws and regulations on alcohol sale and consumption.
She warned that any bar found operating without a valid license, or in violation of the set standards, would be shut down permanently and face legal action.
She also cautioned the county officials involved in the licensing process against engaging in any malpractice or corruption, saying that they would be held accountable and prosecuted.
She appealed to the county security team and the liquor licensing board to support her in enforcing the order, and to protect her from any intimidation or threats from the affected bar owners.
She said that the order was aimed at restoring order and sanity in the county, and at promoting the health and well-being of the residents.
She said that the order would take effect immediately, and that the verification and variation exercise would be completed within a month.
She urged the residents to cooperate with the county government and to report any cases of illegal or unlicensed bars in their areas.
She also encouraged the residents to embrace alternative and productive activities, such as farming, sports, and education, instead of indulging in alcohol abuse.
She said that the county government was committed to providing quality services and development projects to the people of Kirinyaga, and to creating a conducive environment for business and investment.
