Small-scale traders in Busia County have raised serious concerns about harassment from county law enforcers who impose arbitrary levies exceeding those set by the County Government.

They are urging county leaders to intervene.

Evelynn Wanyama, a local businesswoman at Posta Market in Busia, expressed outrage over the mistreatment of small-scale traders, calling it abuse.

“Our stalls were demolished last December, and we are still waiting for compensation from the Otuoma government. If they continue like this, we will vote him out of office in 2027,” she warned.

Eunice Atieno, another affected trader, recounted how her goods were confiscated despite paying taxes, leaving her stranded.

“The county Askaris damaged my goods. I sell only roasted maize and porridge, paying a daily tax of Ksh 40. Instead of harassing us, they should create job opportunities for us,” she lamented.

The county Askaris allegedly continue to demand Ksh 10,000 to dispose of stalls owned by the Busia County Government, a move that has sparked both criticism and support among the business community.

Despite promises from Governor Otuoma’s administration to replace demolished stalls with modern kiosks, traders feel disillusioned and some have resorted to operating roadside due to unfulfilled pledges.