Leaders from Kirinyaga County have sharply criticized security agencies and the county government for allegedly frustrating efforts to eradicate illicit brews in Kangai Ward.
Their remarks follow a disturbing incident on Tuesday, where three individuals were hospitalized after consuming toxic alcohol believed to be illegally brewed in the area.
Addressing residents during a meeting in Kangai, the leaders called for urgent, coordinated action among local authorities to curb the escalating crisis.
“Hata kabla hatujazika vijana tuliwazika katika eneo hili kwa sababu ya pombe mbaya—sumu iliyoletwa hapa—siku ya leo tena tuna watu hospitalini. Hii ni pombe ambayo inaua watu wetu. Wanatufanya tuomboleze tena hata kabla roho zetu hazijapona,” said Kirinyaga Senator James Kamau Murango.
“I want to question the county government—especially the Governor—because it is their office that issues liquor licenses. They must ensure that only licensed sellers are distributing legal and safe alcohol that does not harm our people,” he added.
Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina echoed his sentiments, highlighting the unchecked operations of illicit bars.
“There’s a bar here that operates from morning to evening—and then back to morning again. They’re selling alcohol to everyone, knowing it’s illegal. The County Commissioner must also step up and do his job. If he doesn’t, we will call him out every single day until he takes action,” she warned.
