Deputy President Bans Police Officers from Owning Bars Nationwide

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced a new directive barring National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) and police officers from owning bars nationwide, citing a blatant conflict of interest.

Speaking on behalf of the President, Gachagua emphasized the impossibility of individuals holding positions such as chiefs, assistant county commissioners, or police officers simultaneously owning bars.

Addressing the issue during a statement on Saturday, Gachagua stated, “There is no way a chief, an assistant county commissioner or commissioner or police officer can own a bar anywhere in the country. That is clear conflict of interest and it is not possible.”

Gachagua urged any police officer currently owning a bar to make a decision: either resign from their position and operate the bar, or cease operation of the establishment and continue their service within the police force.

“In light of this, I want to announce here on behalf of the president. If you are a police officer and you own a bar, resign and run the bar. Or stop operating the bar and continue working in the service,” said the Deputy President.

The announcement was made during the mass funeral service for 17 individuals who tragically lost their lives after consuming deadly illicit liquor in Kangai and Kandongu villages of Mwea-West Sub-county, Kirinyaga County.

The victims were laid to rest in various locations within Kangai and Mutithi wards, as the community mourns their loss and seeks answers.

The incident has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of regulations governing alcohol production and sale, as well as heightened awareness of the dangers associated with illicit liquor.

Reports indicate that the contaminated liquor responsible for the deaths had been stored at Kiamaciri police station. Deputy President Gachagua confirmed that the Officer in Charge of Kiamaciri Police Station and three other police officers involved have been dismissed from the police service in connection with the incident.

Furthermore, all remaining police officers at Kiamaciri and Kangai police stations have been transferred to new assignments.

“In addition, we have transferred all police officers from Kiamaciri police station and Kangai police station, from junior to senior officers,” Gachagua added.

Meanwhile, the owner of the bar that sold the deadly liquor, allegedly purchased from rogue police officers, is currently in custody as investigations continue.