Wednesday, 4 June, 2025
Security Committee engages Hon. Muriu over his legislative proposal
Bunge TowerTuesday, 3rd June 2025
The Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security, today held a consultative session with Gatanga MP, Hon. Wakili Muriu, to discuss his proposed legislation, the Alcoholic Drinks Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
The Bill seeks to amend the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act (Cap. 121) by introducing a system of graduated penalties for repeat offenders involved in the production, distribution, or sale of alcoholic beverages in contravention of Sections 27, 32, and 38 of the Act.
Specifically, the proposal outlines stricter, tiered penalties based on whether the offender is committing a first, second, or subsequent offense.
In his presentation, Hon. Muriu expressed concern over the widespread sale of illicit brews in the country, noting that these unregulated alcoholic products are dangerously cheap, yet pose severe health and social risks. He further highlighted that many establishments peddling such brews operate under licenses issued by County Governments.
During deliberations, Members of the Committee raised several issues. Among them was the observation that the judiciary already possesses mechanisms to impose enhanced sentences on repeat offenders.
They also pointed out that a similar legislative proposal had been brought before the 12th Parliament.
Chaired by Vice Chairperson Hon. Dido Rasso (Saku), the Committee proposed a number of amendments to strengthen the Bill and advised Hon. Muriu to consider incorporating the suggestions in the next draft.