Machakos County residents are facing a new regulation as Commissioner Josephine Ouko announces a ban on Disco Matanga gatherings in the region.
Speaking during the country’s 61st Madaraka Day celebrations held at Kitwii Primary School in Kangundo sub county, Ouko said no night vigil gatherings will be allowed for whatever reasons.
“Those familiar with the effects of Disco Matanga’s have rejected their influence, citing their detrimental impact on us,” Ouko said.
According to her, all meetings should be conducted in broad daylight for security reasons. She also banned parties usually conducted on New Year’s Eve maintaining only church meetings would be allowed on New Year’s Eve.
“Let’s celebrate the New Year in church or other permitted locations this year. It’s important to usher in the new year in the presence of others, preferably in daylight and open spaces, ensuring everyone’s participation and visibility.”
Ouko said that such celebrations can be held either on December 31 or January 1 at day time.
She highlighted that night events like Disco Matanga’s contribute to increased theft, robberies, and the use of illicit substances, among other illegal activities in the country.
The administrator emphasized that Disco Matanga’s, which once had noble intentions in their early years, are now being exploited.
She noted a significant shift in societal norms, contrasting the current lack of order with the past when communities maintained a sense of sanity.
She stated that since the government initiated a crackdown on illicit brew and second-generation alcohol on March 6, the county has conducted a total of 2,606 raids.
“We have already disposed of 20,000 liters of illicit brew. Additionally, authorities have seized 12,500 liters of second-generation liquor, along with 352 rolls and 31 brooms of marijuana, totaling 8,570 grams,” she said.
She also went ahead to caution officials issuing licenses to bar operators against the law, ordering her security team to revoke the license and close those bars.
Ouko announced numerous concerns raised by various speakers, including clergy, local leaders, and members of the public, regarding security breaches stemming from Disco Matanga and New Year parties in the county.
