Small traders in Migori County say official negligence, stalled projects and unchecked extortion are crippling their businesses, and they are warning of protests if nothing changes.

The Migori Small Traders Association says the county government has left vendors in unsanitary, overcrowded markets while collecting taxes without providing basic services.

Secretary Odhiambo Migore accused a county executive member, known locally as a waziri, of working with market cartels to harass traders.

Migore alleges that vendors with designated slots were evicted to make way for shipping containers, which were then handed to people who allegedly bribed county operatives.

Long wait

Despite promises of priority reallocation, many displaced traders are still waiting.

The association also cited the unfinished Marindi market, where funds meant for modern trading facilities have produced little, while illegal kiosks spread across public land.

Traders also point to uncollected garbage, missing public toilets and parking, and congestion from makeshift structures.

With the rainy season approaching, traders say drains remain clogged and stalls unreinforced, despite floods last season that washed away merchandise.

Migore questioned whether officials were delaying preparations to later seek disaster funds from the national government, money he fears cartels would divert.

“We haven’t seen any preparations by the County Government of Migori concerning the floods,” he said.

The association rejects “taxation without services.” It says traders will pay legitimate levies once markets are clean, safe and well managed.

It is demanding an investigation into the container programme, transparent allocation criteria and completion of stalled projects.

If ignored, it will lead a peaceful march to county offices to halt tax payments, and urge traders not to vote for the leadership.