This archive report was first published on 23 August 2019.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i ordered the closure of bars and social places for two days during the census, citing the need for all Kenyans to be at home for enumeration.
However, the order was met with opposition from a section of Kenyans who felt it was unnecessary.
Drunkards in Busia county have found an alternative to the order, saying they will cross the border to Uganda and drink there.
They argue that liquor is sold freely in Uganda without any limitations, making it an attractive option for them.
Speaking in Busia town, the revellers expressed their defiance, saying they will not be at home despite the government's order.
"If they say they are closing bars at night, we will close the border to Uganda and drink there, they will not find us at home," said one of the locals.
"They better close them during the day and open them at night, they said enumerators will count people anywhere, they can count us in bars or they just count me at home because my wife will give them all the details they need," said another drunkard.
Enumeration will start on the night of August 24 and end on August 31, with people being counted with reference to where they will have spent the night of August 24.
On Wednesday, August 21, CS Matiang'i said bars will be closed for two days on Saturday and Sunday for drunkards to be at home for enumeration.
He said bars and other social places will be opened during the recommended time of the day but will be closed at 5pm.
CS Fred Matiang'i addressing the media alongside CSs Ukur Yattani and Joe Mucheru on Thursday, August 22.
