POKOT – In a decisive public participation forum held at Kabichbich Centre in Lelan Ward, Pokot South Sub-county, the local elderly population firmly reiterated their commitment to a longstanding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that prohibits the establishment of alcohol-related businesses in the area. The decision comes as a response to the youth’s call for the licensing of pool-table and alcohol-selling outlets, a proposition the elders overwhelmingly defeated in the vote.

According to Kenya News Agency, chaired by Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) David Bowen, the elders argued that allowing such businesses would compromise the community’s peace, stability, and moral fabric. The youth’s demand for entertainment venues where alcohol is sold and pool is played was met with strong opposition from older residents, who believe that these activities would lead to neglect of familial duties and an increase in criminal behavior among the younger population.

William Ruto, a long-time resident of Lelan Location, shared his perspective, noting that the ban on alcohol has been in effect since his youth. Now at 53, he firmly supports its continuation, citing the negative impact of pool tables, which were introduced later, on the community’s social and familial cohesion. Ruto highlighted instances where youth involvement in these activities led to family breakups, violence, and criminal plotting.

Participants opposing the introduction of these businesses urged both national and county governments to allocate more resources to constructive youth engagements like education and sports. Michael Lopokoi, from Kaptabuk Location, voiced concerns over the youth’s tendency to sell family assets for gambling at pool tables, causing widespread distress among families.

DCC Bowen emphasized that the government’s role was to facilitate the forum neutrally and ensure the community’s decision is respected and implemented. He acknowledged the youth’s complaints about being denied leisure activities but stressed the importance of community consensus in such matters.

Sub-county Police Commander Said Shungi called for unity and peace between the generations, despite the forum’s heated debates. He highlighted the importance of maintaining the tranquility that the area has traditionally enjoyed, even amidst disagreements on social issues.

The resolution to keep the ban in place reflects the community’s prioritization of peace and stability over the introduction of potentially disruptive enterprises.