The head of Liquor Licensing in Githunguri, Kiambu County, Mercy Waambui, has been arrested by detectives from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (Eacc) for allegedly soliciting a Sh40,000 bribe from a bar owner in the region.
Kiambu governor Kimani Wamatangi instructed the County Department of Public Administration to relieve Wambui of her duties until the matter by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission is heard and determined.
The County official is said to have demanded the bribe after she, alongside other County Enforcement Officers, impounded goods belonging to the complainant in June, prompting an outcry from the public. Licencing and regulating of bars and restaurants is a function of the county governments.
“On 28 June 2023, Kiambu County Enforcement Officers, including the suspect, went to the complainant’s bar business premises and found her employees stocking beverages and undertaking stock-taking for the day.” Eacc told the media.
The governor has pronounced himself clear regarding his onslaught against corruption in his administration and issues relating to alcoholism and drug abuse in the county.
“I will not tolerate any form of corruption. Officers demanding bribes in order to give services to our people or to give licenses to bars that members of public have requested they be closed over nuisance will not have space in my administration. This also applies any official who will demand money to contractors and suppliers in order to award tenders.” Wamatangi said.
Dissatisfied bar owners were advised to make their cases through appeals whose hearing begun today.
