Bumula MP Jack Wamboka has opposed the recent directive issued by Interior CS Kithure Kindiki to intensify the crackdown on illicit brews.
The DAP-K MP told law enforcers to concentrate on Mt Kenya where illicit brews reportedly kill residents.
Speaking in Bungoma on Monday, Kindiki vowed to continue the national crackdown on illicit brews and narcotic drugs.
He said enforcement officers had closed down many unlicensed bars and destroyed establishments that deal in or manufactured illicit brews.
Kindiki directed officers in law enforcement to stay away from businesses that can cause a conflict of interest like operating bars.
“Any officer who runs a bar or any other outlet that sells alcohol should leave that business and consider other ventures, which won’t bring conflict of interest,” the CS said.
Wamboka expressed concerns regarding the enforcement of the directive, citing instances of alleged police corruption in extorting money from brewers.
"The directive by CS Kindiki to deploy all national government administrative officers to combat illicit brewing in our villages is tainted by graft, as some officers are exploiting brewers for bribes, which is unacceptable," the MP said.
Wamboka said he would not tolerate such misconduct, emphasising the need for enforcement officers to focus on addressing security concerns rather than harassing vulnerable women supporting their families.
Wamboka questioned the necessity of targeting illicit brewing in Bungoma, highlighting the absence of any reported deaths due to consumption of bad liquor in the region.
"We have other pressing issues in our region, and illicit brewing is not a priority. Please, let us address our challenges independently," the MP said.
His sentiments were echoed by South Bukusu MCA Sudi Busolo and Kimaeti MCA Jack Wambulwa, who underscored the cultural significance of the traditional brew, busaa.
Despite the opposition from local leaders, enforcement efforts continue unabated. In a recent raid in Bungoma Central sub county, over 10,000 litres of illicit brew were destroyed.
Bungoma County Police Commander Francis Kooli reaffirmed the commitment of law enforcement to combat illicit brewing, illegal bars, and pharmacies in the region.
