Traders cry foul over notice to leave Usenge market

A section of Usenge market centre in Bondo sub-county. [Isaiah Gwengi, Standard]

Traders at Usenge market in Bondo Sub-County are protesting the move to evict them.

The traders said county officials have been threatening to demolish their structures and confiscate their goods without giving them an alternative area for their businesses. Some of them claimed they had operated in the market for more than 20 years.

The traders who deal in second-hand clothes and fresh produce said the main market was too small. "We are paying taxes and we, therefore, need a conducive environment to do business," said Emily Akinyi, a fresh produce trader.

Akinyi, who now sells her items by the roadside, said this was risky.

"We have children and operating by the roadside is not safe. We need a better place," added Akinyi.

Chrisphine Odhiambo said the order to vacate the market was unfair.

"I don't understand why it has now become illegal to operate from here yet they are still collecting taxes from us," said Odhiambo.

The traders appealed to Governor James Orengo to intervene, saying they have no problem paying taxes.