Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-02-26 17:13:14
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua criticized Coast leaders on Monday, February 26, for their inaction in addressing the issue of drugs and alcohol abuse among the youth in the region. He expressed his disappointment while inaugurating the Coast Region Conference on Illicit Alcohol and Narcotic Drugs Abuse, emphasizing that the leaders’ silence on the matter was detrimental as the problem continued to worsen.
During his speech, Deputy President Gachagua highlighted that despite the urgency of the situation, some elected officials who were expected to lead the charge against drug abuse chose to snub the event. He did not name these leaders but underscored their complicity in the rampant sale of drugs in the region.
“Why are leaders in Coast silent while our young people are falling victim to drugs? Why are some absent from this crucial conference that addresses the very survival of our population in this region?” he questioned. Gachagua urged all elected leaders to actively participate in addressing the grave issue, stating that turning a blind eye to drug-related matters only exacerbated the problem.
He also raised concerns about the lack of cooperation from the judicial system, citing an incident where an accused illegal alcohol seller was arrested and released without facing consequences. The Deputy President commended the efforts of leaders in Nandi and Kirinyaga who were actively involved in combating drug abuse in their regions.
To combat the issue of drug abuse effectively, Gachagua disclosed that President William Ruto had decided not to transfer police officers accused of neglecting their duties. This decision, made in consultation with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki and Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome, aimed to hold accountable officers who failed to curb drug trafficking and substance abuse.
Gachagua and his wife Dorcas Rigathi have been staunch advocates for action against drug abuse, emphasizing the detrimental impact it has on the youth. Following a recent incident in Kirinyaga County where 17 individuals lost their lives due to illicit alcohol consumption, stringent measures were implemented, such as the temporary closure of clubs and bars for a re-licensing exercise.
In conclusion, the Deputy President reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the drug abuse crisis in Coast and across the country. He emphasized the need for collective effort from leaders, law enforcement agencies, and the community to combat the illicit drug trade and protect the vulnerable youth from falling prey to substance abuse.
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