Kirinyaga residents urge Kindiki to act on illicit alcohol

Kindiki recently said in Nyeri that the government would deal firmly with those involved in producing and selling illicit brews.

Speaking in Kangai, Mwea, where more than 20 people died after consuming illicit alcohol, residents and church leaders led by Deacon Moses Chomba called for greater government support in the fight against the brews.

They said illicit alcohol has devastated families and affected many young people in villages across the area, urging the Deputy President to begin the crackdown without delay.

Jane Magondu said some young people had resorted to stealing from their families to raise money to buy alcohol.

Nancy Maringa said the brews had destroyed many youths and men despite the area having previously witnessed deaths linked to illicit alcohol.

“We need the fight against the deadly alcohol intensified, bearing in mind that Kangai was an example in the country,” Maringa said.

Stephen Muriuki said the number of drinking establishments in the area had increased significantly, with some youths spending most of their time drinking.

“They are very weak; they only ask for Ksh.20,” Muriuki said.

Residents also called on the county government to stop issuing licences to bars operating in villages.

“There are more bars than churches and schools. Why licence them?” Muriuki posed.

Muriuki said the effects of illicit alcohol continued to be felt in the community, even when deaths were not immediately linked to consumption.

“We cannot say youths are not dying even today, only that they are developing problems then die with some complications. Things are worse,” he said.