The Lusaka City Council (LCC) has disclosed that Chicago’s Bar and Grill at East Park Mall and four other business owners have been given 24 hours ultimatum to show cause why their trading licenses should not be revoked for going against public health guidelines.
Council Public Relations Manager George Sichimba named the other business entities found contravening similar public health guidelines as Decapo Coffer Bar and Lounge, Cock and Bull and Keg & Lion.
Mr. Sichimba said the violations contravene the provisions of Statutory Instrument Nos. 21 and 22 of 2020 made under the Public Health Act.
He added that following investigations carried out by the council and video footage, it has been established that management at the said entities allowed their premises to operate as a bar and night club over the weekend with unsatisfactory practice of social distancing.
“Similarly, LCC has given them 24 hours ultimatum from the time of receipt of their letters to show cause why Council should not revoke their liquor licenses. This is according to letters to owners of the affected premises dated 1st June, 2020 signed by Lusaka Town Clerks Alex Mwansa,” Mr. Sichimba said.
Mr. Sichimba said the five premises where found wanting during routine inspections conducted by Public Health Inspectors to ascertain compliance with public health guidelines during the night of 29th May, 2020.
Meanwhile, Mr. Sichimba revealed that Farley’s Pub and Grill has also been given 24 hours from the time of receipt of the letter to show cause why Council should not take legal action against them for operating without valid Health Certificate and Business Permit.
“The establishment was found wanting during the same inspections,” he stated.