Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago has refuted claims that his administration is targeting one community in the ongoing operation to evict hawkers from Eldoret town Central Business District (CBD).

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The County chief on Wednesday said all hawkers from the town will be moved.

There have been claims that Mandago's administration was targeting the Agikuyu community as they didn't vote for him in the August 8 poll.

“We will not allow any trader whether a Kalenjin, Luo, or Luhya to hawk in Eldoret town. Every hawker will move to designated markets across the county,” said Mandago.

He accused local politicians of inciting hawkers to attack County askaris whenever they are asked to move from the CBD.

 “Local politicians have been inciting hawkers to attack and injure County askaris while on duty. Hawkers should avoid such politicians who are out to get political mileage and remain politically relevant,” noted Mandago. 

The vocal governor defended his government’s plan to evict hawkers on grounds that the move will give room for the expansion of the town to accommodate more investors who are willing to invest in the town to boost the economy.

 “We want more businesses set up in town by investors who will give our youths jobs hence boost the living standards and improve the economy in the region," he said.

"Hawkers are advised to accept to move and do their businesses in legalized markets,” added the Governor.