Protests Disrupt Business in Eldoret Town as Clashes Escalate
By Faith Mukhwana
Eldoret town witnessed a day of unrest as protesting youth took to the streets, leading to disruptions in business operations and clashes with law enforcement authorities. The situation unfolded throughout the day, leaving many shops shuttered and tensions high in the Central Business District (CBD).
The unrest began when hawkers and street families clashed with county askaris, prompting a swift escalation that drew in local police forces. The initial altercation stemmed from a dispute over the right of traders to conduct business freely in the CBD. According to reports from eyewitnesses, the confrontation quickly intensified as the situation spiraled out of control.
Suba, a local trader who operates in the CBD, recounted the chaotic scene. “The trouble started when county askaris attempted to enforce regulations on street vendors. This led to a confrontation that soon escalated,” he explained. As tensions mounted, police were called in to restore order, but their presence only seemed to further agitate the crowd.
“The clash between the hawkers, street families, and the police effectively brought the town to a standstill,” Suba continued. “Many of us were forced to close our businesses for safety reasons. It’s been more than 8 hours of uncertainty and economic losses.”
During the course of the unrest, reports emerged of opportunistic looting incidents. “It’s unfortunate that amidst the chaos, some individuals took advantage to break into shops and loot valuable items,” Suba lamented. The vandalism and theft added to the distress of local business owners already grappling with the disruptions caused by the protests.
As the day wore on, efforts to quell the disturbances continued, with sporadic confrontations continuing well into the afternoon. Police maintained a heavy presence throughout the town, seeking to contain the unrest and ensure public safety amid the ongoing clashes.
The situation in Eldoret town remains tense, with authorities urging calm and promising to investigate the incidents of violence and looting. Meanwhile, local businesses are assessing the extent of their losses and anxiously awaiting a return to normalcy in the days ahead.
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