Tensions have emerged in Trans Nzoia County after supporters of Governor George Natembeya reportedly stormed his office, with women demanding that he launch a market recently unveiled by President William Ruto so they can begin conducting business.
The incident comes days after President Ruto officially launched the market, sparking a dispute between the Head of State and Governor Natembeya over the facility.
According to reports, the women who visited Natembeya’s office want the governor to ensure that the market becomes operational, arguing that traders are eager to occupy the facility and begin earning a living from their businesses.
The women reportedly expressed their desire to start working at the market, putting pressure on the county leadership to address their concerns and clarify when trading activities will officially begin.
The development comes amid growing political tensions between Natembeya and President Ruto, with the two leaders at odds over the market and its management.
Natembeya has previously claimed that the market was built by his county government, accusing the national government of attempting to take credit for the project. The governor has also raised concerns over the presence of police officers in Kitale as he sought to visit the facility.
On the other hand, President Ruto’s launch of the market has placed the facility at the centre of a political disagreement that has attracted public attention in Trans Nzoia.
The latest incident highlights the concerns of traders who want the market to become fully operational, regardless of the political disagreements surrounding its launch.
It remains to be seen how Governor Natembeya will respond to the demands from the women and whether the market will open for business in the coming days.
For the traders, the immediate priority appears to be securing a place to conduct their businesses and earn an income as the political dispute continues.