This archive report was first published on 8 June 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread in Kenya, many Kenyans have been found to be flouting the government's rules by keeping bars open and drinking long past the curfew time.
On Saturday, President Uhuru Kenyatta extended the curfew for another 30 days, but this did not deter Kenyans from partying. In fact, hundreds of people were seen drinking and dancing in bars and parking lots, despite the government's directive to maintain social distancing.
According to a reveller at a South B joint, 'We now have our freedom back. The fact that we can stay out till 9pm means we can do our alcohol without pressure.'
However, the celebrations were short-lived as police pounced in at 9pm and arrested 17 people for contravening the laws and guidelines stipulated by the Government on curfew hours and social distancing.
This was not the only club arrest made in the week. On Friday, police arrested scores at Buffet Park in Hurlingham, and two days before, they had raided the adjacent Guava club.
Ken Ouma, who operates a wines shop in South B, says that Kenyans are fatigued and are looking for places where they can get socialising relief. 'All one needs is a license that lets them operate as a restaurant. That way, they get leeway to sell alcohol in the disguise of allowing a little drink to accompany a client’s meal.'
