Mass Closure of Bars and Spirits in Njoro Subcounty Sparks Outcry: Government to Take Drastic Measures
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In a dramatic turn of events, bar, wines, and spirit owners in Njoro subcounty gathered on Thursday to express their frustrations to the national and county governments.
This urgent meeting was prompted by the recent cancellation of operating licenses, leading to the closure of approximately 140 establishments.
The crackdown on these businesses was spearheaded by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as part of a nationwide campaign to combat the menace of illicit brew in Kenya.
Gachagua emphasized the government’s unwavering determination to eradicate alcoholism, the production and sale of illegal substances, and drug abuse, which pose a severe threat to the country’s younger generation.
During the meeting, Stephen Wekesa Chairman Bar Wine and Spirits Njoro Subcounty, lamented the loss of licenses due to security concerns caused by idle youth in the area. Despite reporting these incidents repeatedly, no action has been taken to address the issue.
“The rampant betting shops and video shows have become hotspots for criminal activities, serving as hideouts for these gangs. These establishments contribute significantly to the insecurity plaguing the region,” He added.
David Mbevi, the Deputy County Commissioner of Njoro Subcounty, highlighted the ignorance displayed by bar owners who fail to comply with national government regulations regarding opening hours.
“The Subcounty Ward administrator in Njoro should provide a licensing charter to guide owners in obtaining the correct licenses for their businesses,” He advised.
Mbevi also advised those whose licenses were revoked to file an appeal with the liquor board in order to regain their licenses and resume operations.
Additionally, he pledged immediate cleaning operation for the Njokerio slums and Base Poa areas, which have been identified as hotspots for criminal activities.
Edward Kwanga, the Subcounty Public Health Officer, emphasized the importance of bar owners acquiring the necessary health clearance documents in a timely manner to avoid license revocations.
“Those whose expired goods were confiscated to fill out forms at my office to facilitate the proper disposal. Failure to comply will result in hefty charges,” He further warned.
Expressing deep concerns, Julius Nyaata, the Subcounty Administrator of Njoro, highlighted the potential loss of over five hundred million Kenyan shillings in revenue collection for Nakuru County if the licenses remain cancelled.
The future of Njoro’s bar, wines, and spirits industry hangs in the balance as these business owners navigate the process of appealing for their licenses and complying with necessary regulations. The fate of their establishments and the revenue they generate for the county now rests on the swift actions of both the national and county governments.
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