NYERI, Kenya – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sounded the alarm over the resurgence of illicit brews in Central Kenya, warning that the menace is creeping back despite previous crackdowns.
Speaking in a televised interview on Sunday from his Wamunyoro residence, Gachagua expressed disappointment, stating that efforts to eradicate the harmful brews had initially been successful but appear to be unraveling.
“I had fought illicit brew in Central. People were happy with this program. But now these illicit brews are back,” he lamented.
Gachagua had been vocal in the past about combating the trade, which has long been blamed for devastating communities in the region by causing health issues, loss of productivity, and social breakdowns.
His remarks come amid growing concerns that relaxed enforcement and corruption are fueling the return of the trade.
While he did not specify who he holds responsible for the resurgence, his comments could put pressure on the current administration and local authorities to renew the crackdown on illicit alcohol.
The issue remains a politically sensitive one, as past efforts to curb the brews have often been met with resistance from cartels profiting from the trade.
