A group of youthful lawyers in Nyanza has condemned remarks
by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that the government was allowing
illicit brew consumption in Mt Kenya region.
Led by their president Chabi Otieno, the Young Okil Kamaloka Association expressed concern over the remarks and termed the claims irresponsible and inciteful.
He further claimed that the state also ordered relevant government officials to allow the production, distribution, sale and consumption of illicit brew in the region.
Otieno said it was unimaginable that the government, tasked with protecting the lives of its citizens, would engage in such acts.
“Rigathi’s statement reeks of an admission that he was either involved in targeting citizens from his own region by commission or omission,” he said in Homa Bay's Rangwe subcounty on the Eve of Christmas.
The Otieno called on investigating agencies to summon Gachagua to officially lodge his complaint and provide evidence for his claims, while at the same time urging him to desist from inciting the Mt Kenya region against the government, particularly from church pulpits.
“His remarks on a pulpit should be denounced by every church. We also call upon religious leaders to advocate for the sanctity of their pulpits and ensure they are not used for divisive rhetoric.”
The advocates emphasised that the issue of illicit brew and alcoholism is a national vice that transcends ethnic or regional boundaries.
They highlighted the need for concerted efforts to combat the problem through both governmental and community initiatives.
The young advocates converged this festive holiday to support their president who was holding a footablall tournament within the area.
The Dr Chabi Super Cup, which is set to climax on Christmas Day, aims to provide young people with an opportunity to participate in sports, a move the association believes can help reduce the temptation to indulge in alcoholism and other harmful behaviours.
"We believe that initiatives like this can make a significant difference in the lives of our youth; offering them constructive ways to spend their time and energy," Otieno said.
The Young Okil Kamaloka Association concluded by urging all Kenyans of goodwill, including Gachagua, to join hands with the government in the fight against illicit brews and alcoholism.
"This fight must unite us as a nation, not divide us
along ethnic or political lines," Otieno said.
