Irony of Keroche's Tabitha Karanja defending bar owners during meeting against alcohol abuse

On Monday, Nakuru senator Tabitha Karanja was among the Rift valley leaders who joined Deputy president Rigathi Gachagua at the Nakuru ASK show grounds for a meeting on ways to fight alcoholism and drug abuse in the region.

The senator however, found herself pushing for a different message contrary to that of her party leader, which left murmurs among the audience.

While the DP remained firm and categorical on the government’s commitment to ensure a sober nation, the senator who owns the liquor company Keroche breweries took the opportunity to champion for issues of bar owners in the region.

Ms Karanja who spoke first began by commending the government for giving the fight against alcohol and drug abuse a priority and expressed her commitment to support the agenda.

She however found herself defending the alcohol industry by making it known that it is among the major revenue generators in the country.

She called on the need to protect the industry further indicating that the trade has been given a high target in the Finance Bill 2023.

“I wish to commend the Deputy President on the way he has taken the war on illicit brew. We need to protect the liquor industry which stands for our culture and social life. As we wait to pass the Finance Bill 2023, we must know that the liquor operators have been given a high target in terms of revenues,” she said.

Ms Karanja further used the platform to raise the complaints by the bar operators concerning their harassment by the police.

This was contrary to the firm instruction that the DP had given the police on how they should carry out crackdown on illicit brews and alcohol establishments.

The DP had assured the police of the government's protection against any intimidation from the operators.

“I want to assure you of our protection and those of you who will be taken to court by these bar operators, the Attorney General will give you legal assistance,” said Mr Gachagua.