Kiambu: Traders in Kiambu have begun verification of members ahead of their highly anticipated market elections on April 15, 2026. The traders, drawn from Kangangi Market within Kiambu Town, lined up at Community Hall where they verified their names against the register which was generated during their previous elections in February 2023.
According to Kenya News Agency, this exercise was organized by the municipality administration led by Mr. Job Amisi, who also doubles up as the Chairman of a transition committee selected by the Department of Trade. Mr. Amisi emphasized the importance of verifying names to ensure eligibility to vote, addressing traders and urging them to report any discrepancies rather than creating chaos.
Current market officials face accusations of extorting traders for new slots after displacement, as well as attempts to rig the upcoming elections. This occurs amid the construction of a modern market. Simon Thuo, a trader, expressed concerns over the officials’ unwillingness to conduct fresh elections, describing their governance as dictatorial and highlighting the necessity of elections to instigate change.
Rising tensions culminated in demonstrations by the traders last week, triggering intervention from the municipality administration. A timeline for the elections was established, transitioning the voting process from the ‘Mlolongo’ style to a secret ballot system. Mr. Amisi assured traders that new membership cards would be issued post-verification, addressing allegations of unauthorized issuance of membership cards by current officials.
The construction of Kangangi Market is part of a national government initiative under the affordable housing program, expected to accommodate over 2,000 traders.