Runyenjes Traders Seek Governor Mbarire’s Intervention Over New Canaan Market Dispute

Traders at Runyenjes Market in Embu County have urged Governor Cecily Mbarire to step in and resolve ongoing tensions surrounding the operation of the newly built New Canaan Market. Business owners say the situation has created confusion and unfair treatment, threatening smooth market operations.

Traders emphasized the need to honor a previous public participation agreement held at Runyenjes Social Hall. The agreement specified that retail traders would move to the new market while wholesalers would remain at the old market location.

However, traders claim that local leaders recently announced the market is now open to everyone, contradicting the prior arrangement and causing divisions between retail and wholesale business owners. They warn that this inconsistency is undermining the original plan designed to ensure fairness and order. “We want the agreement respected. Retailers should relocate to the new market while wholesalers stay at the old one. Changing this only creates confusion,” one trader said.

Frustrated by the uncertainty, traders have threatened to withhold tax payments until their concerns are addressed, signaling the seriousness of the issue and its potential impact on local revenue.

The traders also sent a clear message to Simba, asking him to refrain from interfering in market management. They stressed that current officials should be allowed to handle the situation and advised Simba to wait for his turn in leadership. “The current leadership should manage the market without outside interference. We respect the leadership process and ask Simba to wait for his time,” a trader added.

The dispute at Runyenjes Market highlights the challenges of managing a new market facility while balancing the needs of different business groups. Traders are calling for a prompt and fair resolution to prevent further disruption and ensure that both retail and wholesale traders can operate effectively.

Governor Mbarire’s intervention is viewed as crucial to mediate between the conflicting parties, restore order and ensure that the agreements made during public consultations are upheld. Traders hope for a transparent solution that protects their interests and fosters harmony within the bustling market.