Kilgoris traders reject county’s new market levy

By Leonard Korir

Narok, Kenya:  There was a standoff in Kilgoris after traders and the county revenue collectors differed over new market levy.

The traders resisted an attempt by the officials to charge them Sh100 contrary to the normal Sh50.

The situation turned ugly after county askaris demolished structures of individuals who had declined to pay the new levy.

The traders protested the move to increase the charges saying they were not given any notice and the market was in squalid condition. Led by their chairman, Mr George Otieno, the over 300 traders pitched tent at the county offices for the better part of Tuesday to protest the new charges.

“We were shocked this morning to hear the revenue collectors demanding Sh100 yet there was no formal communication to that effect. We have not been notified whatsoever of any intention to review upwards the market levies yet we have been ambushed by the council staffs who were demanding we pay them double the normal charges,” said Otieno.

He faulted the county government for increasing the charges yet the market was in bad condition and most of them have been forced to sell their wares at roadsides due to lack of space.

After day-long deliberations with the traders, Trans Mara sub-county coordinator, Abdulahi Lelon said they had suspended the increment and urged the traders to be patient as plans were underway to relocate them to the Sh10 million modern market constructed three years ago.

“We are completing arrangements to relocate you to a better place,” he said.