Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa has asked police officers to exercise restraint when dealing with people drinking traditional brews during the festive season, saying celebrations should reflect what people can afford.

Barasa made the remarks on Friday during Jamhuri Day celebrations in Bungoma County and reiterated the message in a post on X on Saturday, December 13, 2024.

He said Kenyans celebrate differently depending on their income, and police should not harass low-income drinkers while turning a blind eye to those consuming expensive alcohol in clubs.

“Hii Jamhuri day ni msimu wa kujifurahisha. Huu ni msimu wa celebration. Na vile wanaoifanya celebration yako unafanya celebration kulingana na mapato yako ambayo uko nayo mfukoni. Kama wewe ni tajiri uko na pesa, unaenda kule Bungoma, unakunywa Tusker unakunywa Glenfiddich,” Barasa said.

Barasa added that not everyone can afford high-end drinks or entertainment venues, and those with limited means should not be criminalised for their choices.

“Lakini kama uwezo yako haifiki hapo, tafuta mahali wazee wako, unakunywa busaa, kikombe moja unakwenda nyumbani,” he said.

The MP directly addressed police officers, urging them to reduce arrests linked to traditional alcohol during Christmas and New Year celebrations.

“Sasa polisi msimu huu wa krismasi, mpunguze kukamata walevi ya kukunywa busaa na kukunywa changaa. Kwa sababu ata wewe polisi ikifika wakati ya Chrismas, ata leo Jamhuri day, ukifunga kazi, unatafuta club mzuri hapo Bungoma, unaekelea nyama, unaitisha Tusker, unaitisha Glenfiddich,” Barasa stated.

He argued that enforcement should be fair and consistent, noting that police officers also take part in festive celebrations.

“Parapanda ikilia kwamba walevi wapange laini hapa, wewe na yule mlevi wa busaa mtakuwa laini moja. So hakuna haja ya mlevi kuangaisha mlevi mwenzako,” he said.

Barasa’s remarks come at a time when authorities are balancing festive celebrations with public safety concerns across the country.

Health ministry flags festive risks

On Saturday, December 13, 2025, the Ministry of Health warned Kenyans about increased public health risks during the festive season. Speaking at the Omogusii O’Nairobi Kisii End-Year Thanksgiving Sabbath, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni urged responsible celebration.

She listed key risks linked to the holidays, including road traffic accidents, alcohol-related injuries, food poisoning, domestic violence, preventable infectious diseases and disrupted care for people living with chronic illnesses.

Muthoni asked Kenyans to avoid drunk driving, drink alcohol in moderation, maintain hygiene during social gatherings and ensure food and water safety. She also called for responsible sexual behaviour, especially among young people.

The PS further warned about the rising sale of uninspected meat and counterfeit drugs, saying some traders were exploiting increased festive demand. She said the ministry was working with county governments to keep meat inspectors on duty throughout the holidays and promised a crackdown on outlets selling fake medicines.