NYANDARUA, Kenya – Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made a passionate plea to President William Ruto to take decisive action against the resurgence of illicit brews and drugs in the country.
Speaking at the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA) in Ndaragua, Nyandarua County, Gachagua condemned the actions of senior state officials who, he claims, have allowed the return of these dangerous substances without the President’s or his knowledge.
“It is immoral and unacceptable that people can sit in government and decide to bring back poison to kill our children without the knowledge of the President, who cannot accept it, and without my knowledge,” Gachagua stated.
The Deputy President emphasized the significance of the government’s campaign against illicit brews and drugs, describing it as one of the administration’s most successful and popular initiatives.
He praised President Ruto’s efforts in this regard but lamented that certain individuals within the administration do not share the same commitment to the cause.
“Let it not happen that poison is brought back to this country to kill our children when you are the President of the Republic of Kenya,” Gachagua said.
Gachagua also revealed troubling details about the behavior of unnamed officials who have been disrespectful and uncooperative.
He mentioned that these officials have been avoiding meetings meant to discuss the issue and have resumed issuing permits to producers of illicit brews.
The Deputy President highlighted that the war on illicit alcohol and drugs had seen significant victories under his leadership but noted with concern that the problem has resurfaced.
He indicated that a decision to allow the return of illicit alcohol was made a month ago without his or the President’s approval.
“We won the fight, but Mr. President, there are worries that the alcohol menace is back. You chaired a cabinet meeting declaring war on illicit alcohol, but one month ago, a decision seems to have been made without my knowledge and your knowledge to allow the alcohol back,” Gachagua stated.
