Murkomen: Ruto’s Sobriety ‘Forcing’ Officials to Drink in Secret

Some public officials are now concealing their drinking habits out of fear of scrutiny from President William Ruto, whose personal commitment to sobriety is driving a cultural shift in government, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen revealed on Wednesday.

Speaking at the launch of the 2025 National Policy on Alcohol, Drugs, and Substance Abuse, Murkomen noted that the President’s teetotal stance has made alcohol consumption less acceptable among senior officials.

“Leaders who once drank openly are now discreet, especially during retreats or foreign trips,” he said, adding that Ruto’s resolve is reshaping attitudes towards alcohol use not only in government, but in the country at large.

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The new policy, unveiled by the Cabinet Secretary, represents one of Kenya’s most ambitious efforts to combat alcohol abuse. It raises the legal age for purchasing, consuming, or selling alcohol from 18 to 21 and imposes sweeping restrictions on where alcohol can be sold or consumed.

For example, alcohol sales will no longer be allowed in supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, online platforms, or public places such as parks, beaches, and sports grounds. Drinking will also be banned in areas like university campuses, hotel dining rooms, and private clubs.

In addition, alcohol retailers and wholesalers will face tougher rules. These include maintaining a 300-metre distance from schools and meeting tax compliance requirements to qualify for licensing. Only the national government will have the power to license alcohol manufacturers, importers, and exporters.

Stephen Mairori, Chairman of the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), described the measures as a “life-first” approach, prioritising prevention and access to treatment over commercial interests.

“This policy is about putting lives first,” said Mairori.

The new policy marks one of the boldest moves yet by the government to combat harmful alcohol use and protect the country’s youth.

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