The High Court's pronouncement that it is illegal to operate bars and night clubs within residential estates is quite refreshing — with implications for businesses and the general public.
The reasoning is that having pubs and liquor joints within residences violates people's rights to live in dignity and in a healthy environment, which is enshrined in Bill of Rights.
This ruling is therefore a plus for the public, who have had to contend with the inconvenience of having such establishments near their residences. It is for certain that many of these businesses tend to be noisy, disturbing the peace and healthy environment in residential neighbourhoods. As the court noted, it is also difficult to control the behaviour of those taking alcohol in these areas, which deprives other residents their right to privacy.
It remains to be seen, however, how the licensing authorities will go about enforcing this law. For one, the authorities have in the past been selective in issuing permits for bars situated near schools, even as the law forbids it. It is our view that the authorities must be thorough — and cautious — in implementing this law, keeping in mind the public interest in all this.
The ruling must also not be taken as a blank cheque to harass legitimate businesses that are currently operating in residential areas — and should not be an avenue for rent-seeking by law enforcers.
PAYE Tax Calculator
Note: The results are not exact but very close to the actual.
