Atwoli criticises Gachagua for opposing Marikiti traders' relocation

COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli. [File, Standard]

Francis Atwoli, the Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), has faulted Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for opposing Nairobi City County government's plan to relocate traders from Marikiti Market to the new Kangundo Road market.

Atwoli supported the move by the county government, saying it will not only decongest the city but also promote order and cleanliness.

"Nairobi is the gateway to our Republic. When someone arrive from Embakasi and see hawkers crowding the streets, it paints a picture of poverty. If a guest is in a taxi and someone is hawking biscuits at their window, they will ask, 'how poor are these people?' But we are not that poor," said Atwoli, during the opening of a two-day COTU National Trade and Investment Workshop in Nairobi.

He accused Gachagua of supporting defiance by traders to relocate. He challenged the DP to give long-lasting solutions that will empower traders.

"Hawkers don't pay taxes, they do not have an address, are not registered and do not have unions. A hawker is on this street in the morning, in the afternoon is somewhere else. How do you support such people?" posed Atwoli.

He added: "If you are supporting them, then empower them economically. Organise a big market, like what the county government is doing, and take them there, assist them, let them have formal stalls. That's when you will be helping the hawkers."

Last week, Gachagua visited Marikiti Market, where he spoke against relocation of traders, accusing the county government of enforcing policies aimed at hurting them.

He said that during the 2022 campaigns, he and President William Ruto promised to create a conducive environment for traders.

"We promised a conducive environment for traders. We urge the Governor to keep the promise," said Gachagua.

The DP called on Sakaja to engage the people before making decisions that impact them.

"Embrace the spirit of public participation. I am appealing to all leaders to realise that we got the leadership positions through votes. Taxpayers are our bosses and employers. We can't turn against them," he said.