By MN Reporter

Migori county government high taxes have riled small scale traders on the background of deplorable market conditions.

They said tax rates in Migori market are higher compared to what other markets charge on goods within the county.

They said the rates have scared away potential investors.

A section of the traders who talked to Migori News said goods are charged according to size ranging from Sh120 before normal market rates.

They complained of perpetual harassment from tax collectors and now want the department of trade and tourism to restore sanity in the market which they claimed out of control.

“An attendant looks at your luggage size before announcing a figure. Then another attendant comes in for new tax rates,” a trader complained.

He said one luggage can be charged as many times as possible.

“The use of excessive force in tax collection process in this market is the order of the day. We are fed up with harassment from tax collectors who,’’ he said

Tobias Omino, the chairperson of Migori Small Traders Society said despite the high taxes they are yet to get proper toilets in Migori market.

“This poses a big health threat to traders now
with the new cases of cholera in the county,” he said.

However, Daudi Okoth Director Trade and Tourism, said the county government is working hard to improve the market conditions.

“Toilets in this market are under construction. We are also working hard to reduce rate of congestion and enhance easy movement by expanding space of operation,” he said.