Hospital ward Member of  Kiambu County Assembly, Mwangi Wamwangi or JBEE as he is popularly referred to, has faulted the current situation where wananchi were locked out of the process of the issuance of liqour licenses to bar operators saying that their lack of involvement had led  rogue operators acquiring them. This had made it quite difficult for wananchi to participate fully in the fight against illicit brews.

Speaking on Thursday, Wamwangi said participation of residents in the process will help greatly in weeding out unscrupulous traders.
“Public participation is necessary when issuing liquor permits as the public knows well who are eligible to operate the bars. Residents know well those who are behind the illicit liquor and these should not be given liquor permit. Listen to them and follow their wish if we are to end this menace," he said.

He noted that those responsible for issuing the permits have ignored the role that residents can play in ending the sale of second-generation spirits. Wamwangi wants those seeking liquor permits to be vetted thoroughly with help of local residents to ensure only those eligible are issued with permits. He has also urged the county government to reduce the number of bars as a way of supporting the fight against illicit liquor.