Kamukunji Member of Parliament Yusuf Hassan has denounced the actions of Nairobi County Askari's, commonly known as 'Kanjo', against traders in Eastleigh and Gikomba. He stated that the Askari's are responsible for a series of destruction and unlawful confiscation of traders' property. Hassan emphasized that enforcement operations must comply with the law. He expressed concern over reports of continued harassment, intimidation, and arbitrary arrests of small-scale traders, hawkers, and business owners.
Hassan noted that the traders are ordinary Kenyans working hard to earn a living, support their families, and contribute to the economy. He added that at a time when many are struggling with the high cost of living and a difficult business environment, the county government should support small businesses, protect livelihoods, and create an environment where people can work and earn with dignity. The MP called upon Nairobi City County to engage traders and their representatives to find practical solutions to licensing, trading spaces, and compliance issues.
The legislator further stated that the county should ensure accountability for officers found to have unlawfully damaged or confiscated property or abused their authority. He expressed disappointment that Eastleigh and Gikomba, a major commercial center and significant contributor to the city's tax revenues, is being subjected to such treatment. Hassan pointed out that the traders whose businesses generate this revenue are, in essence, helping pay the salaries of the very officers who harass them.
Hassan described the treatment of traders as ironic and unacceptable, saying they are being treated as enemies rather than partners in the city's development. He also expressed concern over the inhumane manner in which some county askaris treat mama mboga, hawkers, and other small-scale traders. Their goods are seized, sometimes without explanation, leaving families without the little income they depend on for their daily survival.
The MP emphasized that no trader should have their hard-earned property destroyed or confiscated through intimidation and abuse of power. He stated that he supports the lawful enforcement of county regulations and the need to maintain order in the city, but enforcement must be fair, respectful, and humane. Hassan suggested that there are better ways for the county to address licensing and trading-space challenges, including engaging traders and their representatives to find practical solutions.
Hassan's sentiments reflect the struggles of traders in Eastleigh and Gikomba, who are a significant part of Nairobi's economy. The county government's actions have been criticized for being harsh and unjust. The traders play a crucial role in the city's economy, and their concerns should be addressed in a fair and constructive manner. The MP's call for engagement and practical solutions is a step towards resolving the issues.
The issue has sparked a heated debate about the relationship between traders and county authorities. The county government's role in enforcing regulations and collecting revenue must be balanced with the need to support small businesses and protect livelihoods. Hassan's statement highlights the need for a more humane and constructive approach to enforcement, one that prioritizes the well-being of traders and their families.
Key points
- Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan condemns harassment of Eastleigh and Gikomba traders by Nairobi County Askari's.
- Hassan calls for engagement between county government and traders to find practical solutions to licensing and trading-space challenges.
- The MP emphasizes the need for fair, respectful, and humane enforcement of county regulations.
