Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has announced plans to conduct fresh vetting of all manufacturers of alcoholic drinks sold in Kenya.
The government wants to stop the production and sale of harmful and illicit alcohol across the country.
Kindiki warns alcohol manufacturers
Speaking at Nyambari in Lari Constituency, Kiambu County, Kindiki said the government is concerned about the rise in harmful alcoholic drinks.
He accused some manufacturers of producing alcohol containing chemicals that can put consumers’ lives and health at risk.
In addition, the government conducted a similar vetting exercise in 2024. That exercise targeted manufacturers of second-generation alcoholic drinks.
Kindiki warned that authorities could revoke the licences of manufacturers previously flagged for producing harmful alcohol.
“The Government has declared a renewed war against poisonous and illicit alcohol,” Kindiki said.
Government agencies to join crackdown
Kindiki said he will meet officials from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Anti-Counterfeit Authority, Ministry of Interior and security agencies.
During the meeting, the officials will discuss measures to strengthen the crackdown on illicit and poisonous alcohol.
Meanwhile, Kindiki urged Kenyans to support the government’s efforts to eliminate harmful alcoholic drinks from the market.
Kindiki tells politicians to stay away
The Deputy President asked politicians not to politicise the campaign against illicit alcohol.
According to Kindiki, security agencies and other government institutions should lead the fight because it involves public health and national security.
Instead, he said governors, MPs and other political leaders should focus on development projects such as roads, markets and electricity.
Kindiki defends government development record
Kindiki spoke while inspecting national government development projects in Lari Constituency.
At the same time, he maintained that the government remains committed to delivering its development agenda.
The Deputy President also dismissed criticism of government projects. He said some critics had claimed that authorities would not construct roads.
For example, he pointed to the ongoing Lironi–Mau Summit Road project, saying the work on the ground shows that the government is delivering on its promises.
