NAIROBI, Kenya- The government has sharply condemned remarks made by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of peddling inflammatory and baseless claims.
During a church service on Sunday, Gachagua alleged that the government was deliberately distributing illicit and counterfeit alcohol in the Mt. Kenya region, a claim dismissed as “mischievous and misconceived” by the State Department of Internal Security and National Administration.
In a strongly worded statement issued by Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo, the government termed the accusations as politically motivated and lacking empathy for families grappling with the devastating impact of substance abuse.
The statement comes on the heels of a tragic incident in Nakuru over the weekend, where three Kenyans lost their lives after consuming illicit alcohol.
“This problem transcends regions and communities, affecting parents, children, and entire families. To trivialize such grave national matters on a church podium is not only irresponsible but also deeply insensitive to the families mourning their loved ones,” Omollo said.
Dr. Omollo refuted claims that government officials, including chiefs and their assistants, could be complicit in such acts, emphasizing that these individuals are deeply embedded in their communities and play a critical role in combating the crisis.
He further clarified that the government neither produces, distributes, nor retails alcohol, describing Gachagua’s allegations as both “mischievous and misconceived.”
The government underscored its commitment to tackling the menace of illicit alcohol, citing a comprehensive 25-point enforcement program launched in March 2024.
This initiative involved stringent vetting of alcohol manufacturers and distillers by a multi-agency team comprising ten government entities, including NACADA, KEBS, KRA, and the ODPP.
Out of 29 active manufacturers, only two were found to be fully compliant, with an additional 13 licensed after a re-vetting exercise.
“These efforts demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protecting Kenyans from the dangers of illicit alcohol. To suggest otherwise is to undermine the tireless work of these agencies,” Dr. Omollo stated.
In an open challenge to Gachagua, the government invited him to present any evidence supporting his claims to investigative authorities. “If his true intention is to save lives, he should make official complaints and provide evidence, rather than making reckless statements,” Dr. Omollo urged.
As the festive season approaches, the government has called on Kenyans to join hands in safeguarding communities from the scourge of illicit alcohol and substance abuse.
Key measures include raising awareness, discouraging drunk driving, limiting alcohol accessibility to underage children, and reporting suspicious alcohol sales.
Dr. Omollo also appealed to leaders to act responsibly, emphasizing that unity and community accountability are essential in addressing the crisis.
With substance abuse claiming lives and tearing families apart, the government reiterated its commitment to eradicating the illicit alcohol trade.
However, it cautioned against politicizing the issue, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the welfare and safety of Kenyans over divisive rhetoric.
