A Nakuru chief has criticised the media fraternity of overindulging in negative publicity instead of focusing on positive issues.
Speaking at a funeral at Sinendet in Njoro sub-county, Chief Simon Kamau Kariuki noted that the area was full of positive narratives that the media can highlight on in place of the challenges that taint the image of the locals.
His sentiments came after the media highlighting the people’s challenges on different occasions which include lack of water, rise in insecurity and fight against illicit brews.
The chief further said that some of the issues cited have been addressed and others are still in the pipeline but no press coverage has been done when such achievements are realised.
However, the locals led by Paul Njoroge said that they want the issue of illicit brews that has affected many youths be dealt with once and for all and given that the chief owns a bar in the area, it becomes difficult for the problem to be resolved fast.
Njoroge pointed out that brewing of illicit brew has caused them more harm than good saying further that many students drop out of school due to engaging themselves in alcoholism and substance abuse.
However, the locals have vowed not to relent in this fight saying that the authorities involved should step in and ensure that the local administrators take their responsibilities seriously.
President Uhuru Kenyatta gave a directive in 2015 to curb brewing of illicit brews after reports that such liquors were claiming the lives of many citizens especially the youths.
The local administrators were tasked to assist in the implementation of this directive or risk sacking.
By Emily Kadzo
