Governor Wamatangi disbands liquor board over sale of illicit brews

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has disbanded the county alcohol licensing board in a bid to check the spread of illegal drinking dens.

The governor accused members of the disbanded board of approving hundreds of outlets where alcohol is sold even close to learning institutions.

He cited Kimbo area in Juja sub-county where over 50 pubs and wine spirits shops are operating close to two colleges, a thing he said his administration will not allow.

“We must change the way things are done in this county. I am not saying we shall not have bars, but alcohol selling and drinking spots will not be allowed to mushroom all over,” Wamatangi said.

Speaking while attending a Sunday service at Siloam Faith International Church in Kenyatta Road Estate, Juja the governor noted that these outlets were also conduits for the sale of illicit brews and drugs to the youth.

“Alcohol will be sold at the legal hours and in the right places and that is what I told the law enforcement agencies during a recent meeting. Our business people must follow the law,” he stated.

He said a new alcohol licensing board will soon be put in place and it will incorporate members of the church.

Wamatangi, who was accompanied by area MCAs led by the County Assembly Majority Leader Godfrey Mucheke, asked religious organizations to support the war against alcoholism and other social ills.

“As a county government we are going to have a serious fight against alcoholism and drugs in the region and we are appealing to churches to join us by organizing counselling sessions for the youth who are the target of unscrupulous business persons,” Wamatangi added.

Mucheke said the county assembly will soon pass a motion that will make Juja a municipality and elevate Gachororo health centre to a level four hospital.