Kisumu traders want City Manager out of office

By Peter Ochieng

Normal activities came to a standstill for some time within the Kisumu Central Business District (CBD) on Wednesday, after traders took to the streets to push for resignation of Kisumu City Manager, Michael Abala Wanga.

The traders peacefully demonstrated along the Kenyatta Highway and pitched camp at City Hall entrance, demanding resignation of the embattled City Manager.

Kisumu City Hall houses Kisumu governor Anyang' Nyong'o's office among others.

It also used to host Wanga's offices, but a source at the County told Nairobi Review that he no longer operates from the premise.

Police officers arrived in time to stop the traders from storming offices at City Hall.

Wanga assumed office in 2020, replacing Doris Ombara.

The traders claim that his leadership has been characterised by 'demolition after demolition' of their businesses.

They carried placards demanding the resignation of the City Manager.

"Abala Wanga must go," read one of the placards.

"Abala Wanga must leave traders alone," added another. One of the traders said, "Abala Wanga must resign or leave us alone."

They left City Hall at about 12.30, after Shem Ochuodho, Kisumu bus park chairman addressed the press.

He said they will not pay revenue to the county government, until governor Nyong'o listens and acts on their grievances.

Ochuodho said they are against demolition of Nyamlori market, and the moving of the Kisumu bus park to Mowlem, as has been proposed by the City management.