The allocation of new stalls in the recently inaugurated Garissa market has sparked a heated debate in the county assembly, with the county administration facing criticism.
During the assembly session, MCAs responded to a query raised by nominated MCA Ayan Mohamed, accusing the county government of favoritism in the stall distribution.
Governor Nathif Jama had officially opened the market on Posta Road three weeks ago, allowing for its use. However, the process has been controversial.
Ayan criticized the authorities for overlooking structures near the assembly, which she argued not only pose a security threat but would also make fire control difficult in an emergency.
Modogashe MCA Mahat Osman expressed frustration with the county government, questioning why traders positioned outside the assembly were not given priority. He described the current stalls as unsightly and a refuge for street children, urging the county to swiftly demolish the illegal structures and reallocate spaces.
Osman remarked, “The governor had promised that the market allocation would be conducted transparently. Yet, small-scale traders right in front of the assembly, who occupy part of a road reserve slated for expansion, have not been included in the market stalls.”
Nominated MCA Dekow Mohamed added, “It is unreasonable for the assembly to discuss roadside businesses while our own institution is surrounded by these same traders who were not considered for the new market. How can we discuss relocating traders when our own facility is in such poor condition?”
Two weeks ago, traders staged peaceful protests accusing the county of unfair practices. Led by Amina Mohamed, they called for a fair stall allocation process, which prompted the governor to hold a consultative meeting with trader representatives.
The market, built by former Governor Ali Korane in 2018, is designed to accommodate 500 traders and aims to alleviate congestion caused by traders blocking busy roads in Garissa town.
