- Speaking to journalists in Kisii, the officials however called for the reopening of the joints saying they did not commit to any illegality to warrant their closures.
- Eric Matagaro, the association chair, said most of the joints closed belong to indigenous entrepreneurs while those owned by outsiders were spared.
Officials of Kisii bars and hoteliers association on Wednesday protested the arbitrary closure of some joints in Kisii.
At least five bars were closed after a crackdown on Tuesday.
Speaking to journalists in Kisii, the officials however called for the reopening of the joints saying they did not commit to any illegality to warrant their closures.
Eric Matagaro, the association chair, said most of the joints closed belong to indigenous entrepreneurs while those owned by outsiders were spared.
“Just a casual survey shows only the locals were affected by the arbitrary act. We deserve a reason from officials who ordered the closure,” Matagaro said.
The association boss was flanked by other officials.
On Tuesday, Kisii Municipal boss Nahashon Ongeri said he had ordered the bars out of business temporarily to meet the required standards.
“They had contravened Liquor Licensing Board regulations, some are operating wines and spirits businesses as clubs and this flouts the initial set rules of engagement,” he said.
He condemned the mushrooming of unlicensed strippers clubs further vowing to act.
“Others are operating beyond stipulated hours and allowing consumption of illegal intoxicating substances,” Ongeri said.
The officials petitioned to be respected saying the members pay more tax.
Group secretary general Rvan Nyaboga called for dialogue to help end the constant run-ins.
Charles Kiage said the authorities lack the legal capacity to close down the bars.