Senator Raphael Chimera has proposed to amend the regulations governing alcohol control in the nation. In a letter directed to Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, Chimera has requested permission to introduce a bill aimed at altering the licensing and operation hours of nightclubs.
Under Chimera’s proposal, nightclubs would be permitted to operate from 7 pm to 11 pm on weekdays and from 7 pm to 2 am on weekends. Additionally, Chimera seeks to transfer the responsibility of liquor joint licensing back to the national government from the county governments.
The Senator argues that these amendments are necessary due to the rising concern of alcohol abuse in the country. He asserts that these changes would complement the government’s existing efforts to combat alcohol abuse, including initiatives such as the establishment of NACADA to address alcohol and drug abuse and the setup of treatment and rehabilitation centres nationwide.
This initiative coincides with the national government’s ongoing efforts to tackle alcohol abuse, including policies to remove all alcohol outlets near educational institutions.
