Protests over punitive rates in Kisumu

By Kepher Otieno and Maureen Odiwuor

Traders held a demonstration in Kisumu over planned increase of new rates and introduction of parking fees at the local markets by the Municipal Council.

They claimed new charges were exorbitant and should have been consulted to allow smooth operation of small and large scale enterprises.

The association officials led by Martin Olouch and Jack Nyambega mobilized businesspeople and marched to the council offices to protest the new fees. But authorities managed to restore calm as chief officers retreated for a meeting to resolve the charges row.

According to the Town Clerk, Christopher Rusana, they agreed to lift some of the fees levied on the women entrepreneurs but maintained the parking fees will have to be paid.

Rusana said they were expected to raise revenue from alternative sources within the municipality and will not succumb to pressure to bend the law but seek consensus.

He called for cooperation between the business sector and the authority if they are to operate well. Rusana spoke as the protesting traders claimed that introducing of Sh50 parking fees at the market bays was chasing customers. They wondered why the fees had been introduced now yet over the years it has been non–existent hence the protest.

Already, the authority plans to hike rates as they embark on upgrading of the town status to conform with the new system of devolved Government.

Recommended Videos

Boxing bouts fade in coast

The importance of public speaking

Prisoner of my skin

Kiambu burial dilemma