Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is calling for greater transparency in addressing alcohol addiction, urging families and religious leaders not to conceal the struggles of those battling with substance abuse.
In a heartfelt interview on Inooro TV’s Kiririmbi program, Mr. Gachagua shared the tragic story of his brother, Jackson Reriani, whose life was claimed by alcoholism in September 2022.
He recounted his efforts to help his brother overcome addiction, illustrating the devastating impact of alcohol abuse on families.
“My elder brother Jackson Reriani was an alcoholic.
I tried to talk to him to stop alcohol abuse and even take him to hospital but he would relapse and go back to alcohol.
After we won the 2022 elections, he took alcohol to celebrate the victory.
He died,” said the DP.
Highlighting the widespread issue of alcoholism in Kenya, the Deputy President emphasized the need for openness in confronting this societal challenge.
He urged families not to hide the struggles of their loved ones, emphasizing that addressing addiction requires collective action and support.
“When we talk about alcoholism and fighting the menace, it is not politics. We are speaking while experiencing so much pain in our hearts. We know what alcohol abuse has done to us, our neighbors and friends,” he continued.
Acknowledging the staggering statistics from the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), which indicates that one in every five families in Kenya is affected by alcohol-related issues, Mr. Gachagua stressed the importance of decisive measures to combat illicit brews and drug abuse.
The Deputy President outlined the significance of stringent regulations to monitor alcohol production and distribution, ensuring that only licensed manufacturers supply alcohol.
He emphasized the role of legislation, commending counties such as Nyandarua, Nyeri, and Tharaka-Nithi for enacting the Alcoholic Drinks and Control Acts, with others like Kirinyaga, Meru, Nakuru, and Laikipia following suit.
Moreover, Mr. Gachagua called upon the judiciary to prioritize public safety in legal disputes related to alcohol production and distribution.
He urged judicial officers to refrain from actions that might perpetuate the circulation of harmful alcoholic beverages and substance abuse.
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