Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has declared an unwavering commitment to the nationwide crackdown on illicit brews, drugs, and substance abuse, emphasizing that the government will persist despite resistance from those disguised as entrepreneurs.
Addressing the congregation in Roysambu at the Presbyterian Church of East Africa Gateway Church during the induction of Rev. David Chege, Gachagua asserted that legitimate businesses would be supported to thrive for the benefit of the economy.
“I was not born in the seat of the Deputy President. If I lose for stopping poison packaged as alcohol being sold to our children, so be it,” said the DP.
“There is no pride in leading a drunk nation,” he said while emphasizing his readiness to pay the political price to save the youth and restore their dignity.
Gachagua applauded the recent government directives aimed at eliminating illicit liquor, drugs, and substance abuse, including the cancellation of second-generation manufacturing licenses and the closure of alcohol outlets near schools.
He stressed that the focus is on combating illicit activities that endanger the youth, not legitimate liquor businesses.
“Illicit brews are killing our children. The youth are sleeping in trenches. We are staring at losing an entire generation. That is why the Government issued tough directives against Illicit brews, drugs and substance abuse. We are not fighting businesses, which are selling legitimate liquor,” he said.
Dismissing calls to withdraw from the fight due to potential loss of votes, Gachagua emphasized that eradicating the menace of illicit alcohol and drugs is essential for creating a productive nation where people can live with dignity.
He praised Rev. David Chege, highlighting his compassion and development-oriented approach as he takes on his new role in the Nairobi Presbytery. The service was led by the Nairobi North Presbytery Moderator Rev. Philip Gichuri.
