The Jeremiah Kioni-led Jubille Party faction has vowed to sue the government for forcing bar closures in its war against illicit brew and is seeking damages for breach of contract and compensation.
The party faulted the government’s move saying the closure of bars was done without putting consideration into key vital concerns such as a compensation roadmap to those whose businesses are being destroyed in the ongoing crackdown.
The embattled party SG said the shut-down has resulted into a ripple effect since many areas of the economy associated with the entertainment outlets have been affected.
Kioni said that all bars were licensed and invested heavily before the closure, with some borrowing money for licensing and stocking inventory.
“We are going to sue the government for breach of contract and for compensation regarding the closing of bars.” Kioni lamented.
He criticized the government for not consulting county governments and noted the economic repercussions that come with it.
“When you close a bar it goes down with eateries, butcheries, boda-boda riders and mama mbogas, hence corrupting the whole ecosystem.” He added.
Kioni questioned the selective approval of certain alcoholic beverages while others are labeled as “killer drinks.”
“Second generated brews like Muratina and Mnazi have been allowed yet the other drinks are being denoted killer drinks yet they have been approved by KEBS.” He added.
The closure directive followed a government order for public officers owning bars to shut them down or resign.
This is after the government issued a directive banning government officials from running bars.
