Clashes erupt in Machakos as contractors protest unpaid bills

For the second day running, transport and business activities in Machakos Town were disrupted following violent clashes between contractors, suppliers and security officers.

The unrest erupted after the traders staged protests, threatening to march to the Governor’s office to demand payment of long-outstanding bills, accusing the county government of failing to settle dues dating back nearly two years.

The suppliers, some of whom suffered injuries during the fracas, are accusing the police of using excessive force.

“We stated we are coming for a peaceful protest to get our money, but we were welcomed by goons. The funny thing is the people beating us are wearing our uniforms,” said a contractor, Maureen Mwende.

A resident Samuel Mwavu said, “They were beaten badly. Joseph and Kioko were seriously assaulted, and when his sister went to ask what was happening, she was slapped as well.”

The county owes suppliers Ksh.1.9 billion after paying Ksh.248 million of the pending bills, with Governor Ndeti maintaining that she is committed to settling all verified pending bills in a transparent and structured manner.

The aggrieved suppliers and vendors are now vowing to hold daily demonstrations until the county government explains an alleged assault on one of their colleagues, reportedly by suspected county officers.

The vendors say the unpaid bills are threatening to sink their businesses.

“The money that was approved by the task force formed by the governor relates to services I offered in 2020/2021. It is painful because we have been following up, you are taken in circles and not paid. I even check emails thinking I’ve been paid, but nothing comes through. You wonder who exactly is being paid in Machakos,” said another contractor, Peter Muli.