Kirinyaga central: The National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) have been urged to remain vigilant in the fight against illicit brews, following reports that some bar owners were operating outside the stipulated legal hours. Speaking during a women's empowerment event in Kirinyaga Central, Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri emphasized the necessity of adhering to the legal operating hours for bars and stressed that violators should face legal consequences.

According to Kenya News Agency, Kiunjuri reiterated the importance of compliance with the law regarding alcohol sales. He stated, "We want to reiterate that those selling alcohol must do so in accordance with the law. They must observe the legal operating hours for selling alcohol. Those selling outside such hours must be dealt with by the government."

The MP expressed concern over the increasing number of alcohol outlets, urging the licensing and enforcement agencies to take full responsibility for addressing the situation. "We are seeing more alcohol outlets than churches and they are open for longer hours. We in the Mount Kenya region and across Kenya are asking those tasked with fighting alcohol and drugs to take up their responsibility," he added.

Mwangi Kiunjuri, leader of The Service Party (TSP), highlighted the need to combat illicit brews to foster productivity among the youth. He noted that excessive alcohol consumption hinders the potential of young people, despite the government's efforts to create employment opportunities. "We cannot abandon our youth because even if we create many job opportunities as a government and our youth are lost in the shackles of alcoholism, there will be no future, since our tomorrow is in the youth," he stated.

The event, organized by Kirinyaga Central MP Gachoki Gitari, also served as a platform for residents to discuss government projects in the region. Both MPs assured residents of the government's commitment to fulfilling its promises and emphasized the importance of unity and focus on development.

Kiunjuri urged for a departure from divisive politics, stating, "We want all of us as leaders to agree to focus on the work we are doing for the people. Politics of insults, politics of division, politics of malice must be left behind us."

During the empowerment program, Gitari distributed 100-seater tents and chairs to the first batch of 10 community groups, reinforcing the government's support for local initiatives.