The Kirinyaga County Assembly has unanimously passed the Kirinyaga County Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill, 2023.
The bill aims to establish a comprehensive framework for the licensing, regulation, and production of alcoholic drinks within the county.
Its enactment comes as a relief to residents who have been adversely affected by the consequences of illicit alcohol, as evidenced by recent incidents such as the tragic loss of at least 20 lives in Kangai Ward.
Furthermore, legitimate liquor traders have also suffered due to the activities of their illegitimate counterparts, leading to government interventions such as the mass closure of outlets.
The bill introduces strict penalties for various offenses related to the sale and distribution of alcohol. For instance, any trader found selling alcohol to minors or individuals under the age of eighteen will face imprisonment for up to five years or a fine of up to Ksh.500,000.
Similarly, individuals involved in the manufacture, distribution, or sale of alcoholic drinks without a proper license will be subject to imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or a fine not exceeding Ksh.50,000.
Additionally, the bill prohibits the hawking of alcoholic drinks, with violators facing imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of up to Ksh.100,000, or both.
The legislation also imposes significant penalties on those found selling alcoholic beverages within 300 meters of residential areas, learning institutions, or places of worship. Offenders may be fined up to Ksh.100,000, imprisoned for up to three years, or both.
To oversee the implementation of these regulations, the bill recommends the establishment of a Directorate of Alcoholic Drinks Control, headed by a director recruited through a competitive process overseen by the County Public Service Board. The director must possess a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized Kenyan university and meet the requirements outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution.
Furthermore, the bill proposes the formation of a County Alcoholic Drinks Control Committee, chaired by an individual appointed by the Governor and approved by the County Assembly.
