Tensions ease in Mbale as stakeholders resolve market dispute

Stakeholders in Mbale resolve tensions over market management, agreeing on an audit, fee stability, and fresh leadership elections.

Stakeholders in Mbale City have taken decisive steps to address the escalating tensions surrounding the management of Mbale Central Market.

This follows a week of unrest during which vendors closed the market in protest against the removal of the market executive, proposed increases in rental fees, and concerns over administrative overreach by the new market administrator.

The protests were sparked by the enforcement of the new Market Act, 2023, which transfers administrative powers from market executives to city authorities.

Vendors expressed frustration, arguing that these changes would undermine their ability to manage operations effectively and protect their interests.

In response to the unrest, a harmonisation meeting was convened by Mbale City Clerk, Ambrose Ocheng, bringing together traders, city council authorities, and the Resident City Commissioner.

The meeting, which began with heated exchanges and accusations, sought to resolve the standoff between the vendors and the city council.

Key resolutions were reached, including the decision to conduct a comprehensive audit into the alleged mismanagement of market revenue.

The audit aims to address vendors' concerns and ensure greater transparency in the market's administration.

Stakeholders also agreed to enforce the new Market Act while committing to fresh elections for sector heads to better represent vendors' interests.

Vendors accused the former market master of issuing fake receipts and diverting market revenue.

"The problem is they collect Shs128 million  and claim they have spent it on water bills while the water is disconnected," said Ali Madoi, a vendor.

A crucial outcome of the meeting was the decision to maintain the current rental fees, which played a significant role in easing tensions between the vendors and the city council.

By addressing these core issues, the meeting concluded positively, with all parties agreeing to work together to improve the management and operation of Mbale Central Market.

Mbale City Town Clerk Ambrose Ocheng strongly condemned cash collections, stating, “Any money from the market must be paid through the electronic system. Report anyone who asks you to pay cash.”

“I am very excited to have a fresh election of new leaders,” said Magombe Umar, a vendor.

Mbale City Public Relations Officer James Kutosi confirmed the resolutions, stating they would foster cooperation between the market association and the authorities.

The vendors agreed to vacate the offices for city authorities while the Town Clerk pledged to allocate them an alternative space for their association office.

These measures are expected to restore stability to the market and enhance its functionality, ensuring that both vendors and city authorities can collaborate effectively moving forward.

As Mbale Central Market reopens, there is hope that the agreements reached will pave the way for a more harmonious relationship between vendors and city officials.