- The activists also plan to submit a petition to the agency’s management
- The agency mostly interacts with importers of goods
Image: BRIAN OTIENO
A potential clash between human rights activists and clearing and forwarding agency is in the offing in Mombasa county on Monday.
Activists, led by Concerned Citizens Kenya convener Bradley Ouna, have vowed to proceed with peaceful protests against corruption perpetuated by a government agency.
On Friday, Ouna wrote to central police station to notify him of the intended protests that will start at 10 am from Pembe za Ndovu to the agency's office.
“We are protesting against rampant corruption, specifically the profiling department of that agency,” he said.
The activists also plan to submit a petition to the agency’s management.
The agency mostly interacts with importers of goods.
In his letter, Ouna asked the police to provide security during the protests.
However, the OCS asked them to pick another date, saying Mombasa still has tension over muguka ban.
The county banned the sale and use of muguka. An Embu court however suspended the ban temporarily until a matter filed by the Embu county government is heard and determined.
This caused clashes between muguka traders and county inspectorate officers at the Bonje cess point for three days as the traders forced their way into Mombasa.
Police say goons might take advantage of the protests to cause havoc in the Mombasa Central Business District.
Ouna said they have received numerous complaints from importers whose goods are held at the Mombasa port even after paying all taxes.
“They are being taken round in circles, sent from one office to another. It is clear that these people want something without saying it. This is Kenya and we know how state officers operate,” he said.
Brian Bii, an importer, said his goods have been held at the Mombasa port for close to a month now.
“I work hard to sustain myself and my family and create employment for a few other youth. It hurts to see government officials give you excuses over your livelihood,” he said.
“Why would someone, paid by our own taxes still come to us, the tax payers and demand a bribe just because he has the power of a signature? It is not right.”
Bii said the delay has cost him clients before and if this happens again, the same will be repeated.
He urged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate the agency.
“Let us follow the laid down procedures and not anything else outside the law. I have struggled to import goods worth Sh1.2 million,” Bii said.
Janet Mureithi said she partnered with another youth in Mombasa to import goods worth Sh2.1 million that are still held at the port.
“It is frustrating, considering the government has been urging the youth to get into business. But with these kinds of frustrations, many youth will easily abandon business and get into crime,” he said.