The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has criticised the government’s ongoing crackdown on foreign small-scale traders, questioning the manner in which the operation is being conducted and warning that it could damage Kenya’s relations with neighbouring countries.
In a post on X, Kalonzo pointed to images of hundreds of small-scale traders seeking emergency travel documents outside the Burundian Embassy in Nairobi ahead of a government deadline, saying they reflected how poorly the crackdown had been handled.
He argued that the difficulties facing Kenyan traders cannot simply be blamed on foreign hawkers. Instead, he identified corruption, an unpredictable business environment, inconsistent tariffs and taxation policies as major factors hurting local businesses.
Kalonzo said there were more organised ways of supporting Kenyan small businesses while ensuring both local and foreign entrepreneurs operate within the law.
He described the government’s approach as chaotic, arguing that enforcement without a clear strategy does not amount to effective governance.
According to Kalonzo, the administration risks creating a crisis instead of addressing the underlying economic challenges facing small-scale traders.
He also questioned the timing of the crackdown, warning that politically driven tensions ahead of the 2027 General Election could harm small businesses that become caught in the dispute.
The Wiper leader urged the government to prioritise diplomacy, dialogue and adherence to the law when dealing with the issue.
He warned that failure to do so could deepen tensions between communities and neighbouring countries while disrupting economic activity at a time when Kenya faces significant economic pressures.
Kalonzo also called for greater transparency in the handling of affected foreign traders, including details of any documentation or changes to their immigration status. He cautioned against allowing the exercise to be used for purposes beyond legitimate trade regulation and border management.
His comments come days after President William Ruto directed Tata Chemicals, an Indian company operating in Magadi, to leave Kenya.
Ruto accused the firm of failing to deliver sufficient development and employment opportunities in Kajiado despite holding a 100-year agreement. The President said the contract would instead be awarded to another company under stricter conditions.
