Ndindi Nyoro proposes change to licensing of bars and liquor outlets
People’s Party leader Ndindi Nyoro has called for the national government to take over the licensing of bars and other liquor outlets, as authorities in Kiambu intensify a crackdown on illicit alcohol and have banned unlicensed persons from collecting empty wine and spirit bottles. Speaking in Subukia, Nakuru County, on Saturday, September 26, 2026, Nyoro […]
Ndindi Nyoro, leader of Kenya's People's Party, has urged the national government to assume responsibility for licensing bars and other liquor outlets. This recommendation comes as authorities in Kiambu intensify efforts to curb illicit alcohol production and distribution, leading to a ban on unlicensed individuals collecting empty wine and spirit bottles.
Speaking in Subukia, Nakuru County, on September 26, 2026, Nyoro pointed out that the current system, where counties issue liquor licenses while national security agencies handle enforcement, creates a disconnect. He proposed that if his political party comes to power, the national government should take full control of liquor licensing to create a cohesive system.
Kiambu County's Commissioner, George Matundura, has ordered an immediate halt to the collection of empty bottles by unlicensed persons, citing concerns that some are being sold to illegal distillers who repurpose them for illicit alcoholic drinks. The crackdown follows a raid on a suspected illegal distillery in Muguga, Kabete Constituency.
Nyoro argued that counties have an incentive to license more alcohol outlets due to revenue generated, while enforcement relies on national agencies. He emphasized that transferring liquor licensing to the national government would streamline responsibility between licensing and enforcement. However, liquor licensing remains a county function under current law, handled through County Liquor Licensing Committees.
The Kiambu operation highlights the issue of reused branded bottles, with authorities suspecting their use by illegal distillers. The crackdown has resulted in one person being arrested and a vehicle seized during the Muguga operation. The latest developments in Kiambu provide context for Nyoro's proposal, as he believes the current separation between licensing and enforcement allows for poorly regulated liquor outlets and illicit alcohol networks to flourish, damaging the country's alcohol market.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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