Kabogo calls for closure of Kiambu pubs operating 24 hours to curb alcoholism

Information Communication and Technology (ICT) Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has kicked off a storm by ordering security officers to close bars operating 24 hours in Kiambu County.

Kabogo told national government administrative officers in the county to move swiftly and close bars whose owners flout the law, even if they are licensed.

“You do not require permission from (Governor Kimani) Wamatangi to do what is right. Close these bars forthwith even if they are licensed, whatever the outcome. I sit in the Cabinet so don’t wait for the President to do it,” he said.

The statement is likely to stir controversy and conflict, given that it is the mandate of county governments to license bars and entertainment joints within their jurisdiction.

Kabogo spoke on September 17, 2026 during a meeting with women from Gatundu South constituency, which was also attended by his Cabinet colleague Alice Wahome, the convenor Principal Secretary (PS) for Correctional Services Salome Beacco and Kiambu Woman Representative Anne Wamuratha.

The former Kiambu Governor said the President should not be blamed for rising cases of sale and consumption of illicit killer brews when he has officers on the ground to enforce the law.

The leaders expressed concerns that the consumption of illicit harmful generation alcoholic drinks has taken a heavy toll on families in the area and called for decisive action to end the menace.

Beacco and Wahome appealed to Governor Wamatangi to intervene personally and reduce the outlets licensed to sell alcohol on 24-hour basis, which they say has led to a reduction in productivity by men in the area.

“I am appealing to the Governor to ensure that those in the alcohol business open their premises after working hours to ensure people engage in productive activities during the day instead of getting drunk,” said the PS.

Noting that men have abdicated their roles leaving family responsibilities to women as a result of alcoholism, PS Beacco said drinking should be regulated by reduction of opening hours.

Wahome said the effects of reckless drinking have ruindd many homes not only in Kiambu but also Murang’a County where she ails from.

“There is need for concerted efforts to rescue our young generation from the yoke if alcoholism which has been made worse by the availability of cheap and dangerous products that have even claimed lives,” the CS reiterated.

Wamuratha condemned the sale of harmful second generation drinks which have reduced hundreds of young people in the county to vegetables.

“It is shameful that our men here in Kiambu, who are for long known to be responsible husbands and fathers have now become slaves of alcoholism and shied away from their duties, including matrimonial commitments,” Wamuratha lamented, amid cheers from the audience.

Earlier, Kabogo asked retired President Uhuru Kenyatta to quit active politics and allow President William Ruto to run the country during his tenure without undermining him.

“Uhuru did his part and retired. During his tenure, he brought development even to his rural home of Gatundu. I am asking him as a friend to kindly keep off politics now and enjoy his retirement,” he added.

Kabogo also cautioned the Mt Kenya community against being hoodwinked to abandon the government, asserting that the opposition has nothing to offer.

Beacco also assured Gatundu residents that development programs are on course and the government will meet its obligations including tarmacking roads and other projects.