MP cautions colleagues against alcohol consumption

Tigania East MP Josphat Gichunge distributes tree seedlings to his constituents at Thuuri Day Secondary School on December, 13, 2018. [File, Standard]

Tigania East MP Josphat Gichunge has cautioned local politicians against making pronouncements while under the influence of alcohol.

The MP, speaking at Mikinduri, also urged leaders to stop consumption of alcohol. "I have noted with concern that some of the pronouncements politicians have made were while they were under the influence of alcohol," said the MP (above).

He said: "I urge them to stop consuming alcohol as a way of showing a good example to those they lead. Alcohol consumption impairs their judgement and they are likely to make wrong decisions or issue statements that may cause problems.

"Leaders' love for alcohol has the potential to compromise the country's economic development agenda. That is why I am appealing to them to stop indulging in alcohol. When they drink and decide to address the people, then they are likely to divide them or make embarrassing remarks,” said the lawmaker.

"Although the job of a leader is stressful due to the many demands by the electorate, I urge leaders to seek guidance from God, not in bars."

The MP said instead of spending their time drinking, leaders should be busy delivering the promises they made to the people ahead of elections.

"And those who must drink, please go home and sleep, and only speak when you are sober. Consumption of alcohol is one of the reasons some leaders have engaged in bitter exchanges only for them to regret the things they said later," said Mr Gichunge.