Kisii County Government has been challenged to consult and involve traders through public participation platforms,before revising or introducing new business levies and permits,to avert a backlash from traders in the County.
The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry(KNCCI)Kisii County Chairman,Benjamin Onkoba has faulted the County administration of singlehandely imposing new business levies and permits on the traders without engaging them through public participation discussions.
Speaking to the press in Kisii town,Onkoba expressed concern that the County administration hardly involved the business community in issues concerning trade licenses and permits,instead traders were allegedly caught unaware with new changes in business l.evies and licenses.
"There is a serious problem in the manner in which the County administration handles issues affecting traders and the entire business community in this county,since there is lack of proper communication and co-ordination among officers in the revenue department and other trade-related department in the County Government,"lamented Onkoba
Onkoba said,there were conflicting informations originating from the revenue department and the County treasury concerning business levies,business permits and linceses,leaving traders on a dilemma over whose information to take.
He challenged the County Government to devise a universal communication channel from where the business community can receive official information and communication concerning business levies,licenses and permits to avert confusion.
Having information originating from different sources,Onkoba feared,could lead to conmanship in the process of applying for business permits and licenses in the County.