By Abdimalik Hajir - Reporter
August 5, 2026 - Traders operating on the peripheries of Suq Mugdi (Dark Market) Market have petitioned the County Assembly of Garissa, raising concerns over what they termed discriminatory and excessive monthly charges imposed on businesses operating outside the market’s perimeter fence.
The petitioners told the Assembly that they are compelled to pay a monthly fee of Sh3,000, while traders conducting similar businesses within the perimeter fence of Suq Mugdi Market pay only Sh400.
The traders described the Sh3,000 monthly charge as excessively high, noting that they also meet their statutory obligations by paying the annual Single Business Permit (SBP).
They further raised concerns over what they termed ambiguities in the County Government’s Finance Bill, particularly the categorization of businesses under the broad description of “beauty shops.”
According to the petitioners, the broad classification encompasses several distinct categories of businesses, which has resulted in traders being subjected to fees they consider unfair and disproportionate.
The petitioners also argued that following the expiry of the 2024/2025 Finance Act, any fees collected from them thereafter lacked a valid legal basis and called for the matter to be investigated and addressed.
The petition was received by Deputy Clerk Abdi Shakul Kassim, who formally acknowledged the grievances raised by the traders.
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The Clerk, CHRP Mohamud Abdi Santur, guided the petitioners through the Assembly’s petition process and advised them on the appropriate channels for pursuing their grievances.
“The Assembly is mandated to receive and consider petitions from members of the public. Your concerns will be formally processed through the appropriate mechanisms, and you will be kept informed as the matter progresses. We encourage you to provide all relevant documentation to support the issues you have raised,” said Santur.
Garissa Township MCA Hussein Mohammed Dagane, whose ward hosts Souk Mugdi Market, assured the traders that their petition would receive due attention and be processed by the relevant Assembly committees in accordance with the law and established procedures.
Also present was the Chairperson of the Committee on Finance, Budget and Appropriations, Omar Abdi Hassan, who took note of the concerns raised by the traders.
The petition will now undergo the requisite Assembly processes, including consideration by the relevant committees, which will examine the issues raised and make appropriate recommendations.