Popular Kilimani clubs; Kiza Lounge, B Club and Space Lounge Grill will be closed if the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has their way.
NEMA has been compelled to enforce closure notices against KIZA lounge in the Kilimani area after residents complained of loud music.
Environment and Land Court Judge Loice Komingoi on Monday directed that the same notices be enforced on B Club, Space Lounge and Grill and Explorer Tavern.
Komingoi said she was persuaded by the petitioners, Kilimani Project Foundation, that residents’ right to a clean and healthy environment had been infringed on by the activities of the four clubs.
The three clubs are known for hosting FOMO inducing parties. All the major celebrities in Kenya love partying at the three spots.
The residents claimed that the operators of those businesses play loud music daily and host rowdy revelers, thereby depriving them of sleep and security.
They claimed their constitutional rights have been breached.“WHAT GOES ON IN THESE ESTABLISHMENTS IS CAUSING A BAD INFLUENCE TO THE CHILDREN, THUS VIOLATING OUR RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS,” THEY ARGUED.
The Nairobi county government was further compelled to revoke all liquor licenses issued to the four clubs.
However, the judge declined to grant orders to permanently restrain the clubs from carrying on their business as they already have the necessary licenses duly issued by the director of the environment, Nairobi county government, Nema and the NCC Alcoholic Drinks and Licensing Board chairperson.
He said they are operating the businesses due to the licenses issued, although unlawfully.
“THE CLUBS CONTINUED OPERATION OF BUSINESS WITHIN THE PETITIONER’S AREA OF RESIDENCE IS A VIOLATION OF THEIR RIGHTS TO LIFE AND RIGHT TO A CLEAN AND HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT AS CONTEMPLATED IN THE CONSTITUTION,” THE JUDGE SAID.
The court further declared that the business permits and liquor licenses to the three clubs by chairperson – Nairobi City County Alcoholic Drinks and Licensing and Board and the Nairobi County government allowing them to operate their businesses in the manner complained of by the petitioner is unlawful and illegal.
