President Kenyatta bans sale of alcohol in restaurants, bars remain closed indefinitely

President Uhuru Kenyatta has banned the sale of alcoholic drinks in all restaurants in the country and directed that all bars remain closed indefinitely to slow down the rising rate of COVID-19 transmission in the country.

Addressing the Nation on Monday, President Kenyatta said the government had noted with concern that people are socializing without regard to protective behavior in environments selling alcohol, posing one of the greatest risk factors in the country’s battle against the pandemic.

The ban on sale of alcohol in restaurants and eateries will remain in force for the next 30 days.

“That there shall be no sale of alcoholic beverages in eateries and restaurants across the territory of the republic of Kenya effective midnight today for the next 30 days,” said Kenyatta.

He further amended the closing time of all restaurants from 9pm to 7pm.

The President further directed Inspector General of Police Hilary Mutyambai to withdraw all licences for bars found operating, adding that the withdrawals shall be permanent.

The Inspector General of Police will also be required to submit to Interior CS Fred Matiang’i a weekly report of all bars whose licences have been withdrawn.

“Forthwith, the IG shall ensure that his officers spare no mheshimiwa, no individual, regardless of social status or rank who is either out after curfew without being an essential worker or who flouts the health protocol that has been set out,” said Kenyatta.