Interior PS Raymond Omollo/MINAInterior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has told off
former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over allegations that the government
is deliberately targeting the Mt Kenya region with illicit alcohol.
In a statement, Omollo termed Gachagua’s remarks as selfish and politically motivated.
“The state Department of Internal Security and National Administration wishes to condemn the reckless statements made by the impeached former Deputy President Mr. Rigathi Gachagua in a church service he attended yesterday, accusing the government of deliberately targeting citizens of Kenya in the Mt. Kenya region with illicit and counterfeit alcohol distribution,” he said.
“It is therefore in bad faith and disingenuous of Mr. Gachagua to turn around, after serving this country at the highest office, and lay such ludicrous claims on such a sensitive matter that deeply impacts families and lives.”
The former DP made the claims during a church service in Nakuru on Sunday.
He insisted that it is worrying that such a sensitive matter can be trivialised without empathy for families that have lost their loved one to illicit and counterfeit alcohol.
The Principal Secretary added that the claims by Gachagua are ill-intended and can amount to breaking the law.
“We take great exception that such grave national matters can be trivialized by one individual, on a church podium nonetheless, without empathy for the families that may be struggling with this crisis
“While it is clear for every citizen to see that this is a selfish politically motivated inflammatory statement, it is also obvious that the government does not produce, distribute nor retail any alcoholic drinks. Insinuating that any executive can direct the sale of any alcohol, whether poisonous or not is mischievous and misconceived and would amount to illegality,” Omollo added.
Omollo said if Gachagua’s true intention is to save the lives of Kenyans from the harm of illicit alcohol, he she file an official complaint and hand evidence to investigative and enforcement agencies for appropriate action.
The Interior PS further urged urge all Kenyans to work together to safeguard communities and protect children from harmful substances and abuse, during this festive season.
