Rivalry has emerged in the Githunguri market between traders over the lack of standardized selling prices. The rivalry is between traders operating inside the market and those with stalls outside. The traders inside the market accuse the outside traders of ruining their business by selling products at cheaper prices.
The outside traders say the rivalry was sparked by market leaders who expelled them from the market for selling products at lower prices, which attracted more customers to their stalls.
According to the outside traders, this conflict began in 2017 when some traders were forced out of the market while others chose to leave due to limited space. “I chose to rent a store outside the market because I was not shown where to operate for two months even after having products to sell,” a trader narrated.
Despite adhering to regulations and paying for business permits, the outside traders accuse the county askaris of being used by market leaders to intimidate them into shutting down their businesses. “I have been paying 10, 000 for my license, but county askaris have been harassing me, whats is the problem.” A trader questioned.
The county askaris harassment escalated, leaving one trader hospitalized with a fractured leg after being beaten by the enforcement officers.
Kiambu County markets have experienced political interference that has disrupted the smooth operation of many traders. Traders are now appealing to Governor Wamatangi to intervene, end the mistreatment by county askaris, and resolve the ongoing rivalry in the Githunguri market.
By Mwaura Kimani
