By Jackline Wilfred, Nairobi
Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa has criticized the Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Raymond Omollo, over his dismissal of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s concerns regarding the growing problem of illicit alcohol in the Mt. Kenya region.
In a statement issued on Monday, Senator Wa Thang’wa expressed both amusement and disappointment at Omollo’s reaction to the former Deputy President’s remarks, accusing the PS of focusing on political attacks instead of addressing the serious and destructive issue of illicit alcohol that continues to ravage families and communities.
“It is both amusing and disappointing that Dr Omollo chose to trivialize the People’s DP’s concerns by prioritizing character attacks over a meaningful response,” said Senator Thang’wa. “For a matter as dire as the rise of illicit alcohol, one would expect a more serious and constructive approach from such an esteemed office.”
The Senator went on to remind the government that during Gachagua’s tenure, Kenya saw a significant decline in the sale and consumption of illicit alcohol, a trend which, according to Thang’wa, has now reversed under the current administration.
“That progress, now seemingly reversed, deserves an honest evaluation rather than dismissive rhetoric,” Thang’wa added, questioning the government’s failure to address the issue head-on. “If lies and deflection were effective governance tools, perhaps we wouldn’t still be grappling with tragedies such as the recent loss of lives in Nakuru.”
Senator Thang’wa raised critical questions that he believes the government must address, urging the PS to focus on practical measures rather than political rhetoric. Among the issues highlighted were the effectiveness of the 25-point enforcement program aimed at curbing illicit alcohol production, the resurgence of illegal alcohol in regions like Mt. Kenya, and the accountability of local enforcement officers who may be complicit in the illicit trade.
“Families are suffering, and communities are desperate for leadership that prioritizes solutions over political point-scoring,” Thang’wa stated. “The government needs to address these questions seriously, engage with stakeholders, and learn from Gachagua, whose record on this issue speaks for itself.”
The Senator urged the government to take immediate action to halt the sale and distribution of illicit alcohol, emphasizing that only through action, accountability, and collaboration could Kenya effectively tackle the menace and prevent further loss of life.
“The time for empty statements has passed,” Thang’wa asserted. “It is the responsibility of the PS, his CS, and the President to halt the sale and distribution of illicit alcohol and prevent further loss of life.”
Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa’s remarks come at a time when illicit alcohol remains a major concern in various parts of the country, causing devastating health, social, and economic impacts. As the debate continues, the call for tangible action from the government remains a priority for many Kenyans.
