The relocation of traders from the historic Oharey market has once again suffered a massive blow after area Member of Parliament, Aden Duale, vowed to block the move.
Speaking on Sunday at the market place, Duale reiterated that the relocation would not happen under his watch, a thing that he later addressed in a firm social media statement.
"Interacting with residents of Oharey market. The market will not be moved. As leaders, we must protect small traders, our mothers and youths.
"For the last 13 years every effort was made to relocate from their historic market. That will not happen under my leadership," maintained Duale.
Amid the confusion, traders at the market say that they would never mind relocating to the new proposed modern site, stating that it was part of their previous agreement with Governor Ali Korane.
Led by Amina Abdi Daar, who is the chair of the Orahey market, the traders maintain that Governor Korane had severally visited the market, even forming a joint committee to oversee the relocation exercise.
To her, the relocation is a good move as the new site will not have congestion of vehicles as is the case at Oharey.
“We are not opposed to the move. Some of our women traders started operating here for close to three decades ago. We have always wanted to be moved away from the roads because they are meant for vehicles," she said.
Duale's latest move is now expected to renew power rivalry with Governor Korane.