BY ALBERT NYAKUNDI
Traders operating from Kahawa West ward County stalls have protested against unfair competition from roadside traders.
They protested outside the ward manager’s office.
County staff ran out of their offices for safety.
Angry traders permanently locked the office using a welding machine.
They claimed the roadside vendors sell similar goods sold in the stalls and offer similar services offered at the county stalls at lower prices since they do not pay any levies to the county government.
“The county government must ensure we are trading in a fair environment if it intends to continue collecting trading fees from this market.” Said Susan Warutere.
She said county officials have failed to stop hawking in the stalls.
A trader who sought anonymity and sells shoes from a makeshift market adjacent to the county market said embattled Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko told them not to pay any fees to the county government.
“We are ready to pay any fees should the County Government require us to pay but no one is going to intimidate us.” he said.
Area MCA Anthony Gatune could not be reached for comment.