Huruma Ward DCP aspirant Harun Maina has spoken out against what he termed as biased and selective enforcement by anti-counterfeit officers in Eldoret. His remarks follow the circulation of a viral video showing a distressed female trader whose goods were reportedly seized during a recent operation.

The trader, identified as Saroz Shoe Collection, is seen in the video in tears, explaining that the loss of her merchandise has left her dealing with debt, family obligations, and emotional strain.

Maina said the footage highlights the hardships many small-scale traders endure, noting that most rely on daily sales to support their households.

“This is not only about business; it is about humanity,” Maina stated. “When a woman is crying about her children and her loan, it suggests something is wrong with how enforcement is conducted.”

Claims of Selective Raids

Maina questioned why operations appear to focus on small retailers while larger suppliers dealing in similar products allegedly continue operating without interference. He referenced a known wholesaler, Wajose, claiming the supplier serves many traders in the same area where the raids occurred.

Huruma Ward DCP Aspirant Maina Harun speaking during an interview in Eldoret Media Hub. Photo/Courtesy

He argued that large-scale suppliers often escape scrutiny despite trading in the same goods. According to him, some wholesalers hold both retail and wholesale licenses, making it difficult to track the origin of products once they reach smaller sellers.

“If accountability is the goal, then start at the source,” he said. “Begin with the wholesaler, because that is where the goods come from.”

Mental Health and Social Impact

Maina also raised concern about the psychological and social effects of such crackdowns, especially on traders who depend on small margins to survive. He cautioned that forceful enforcement without proper checks could drive some into depression and desperation.

He noted that the affected trader spoke about loans and caring for her children, urging society to reflect on the consequences of such actions.

He further appealed to authorities to exercise compassion, particularly toward traders who are licensed, pay rent, and run open businesses.

“She is not a criminal or a drug dealer. She operates a licensed business and pays rent like others,” he said.

Appeal to Government and Leadership

Maina urged both county and national authorities to step in, calling on President William Ruto to personally address the issue. He observed that Eldoret is the president’s home area and said the situation could undermine efforts to support small enterprises.

He pointed out that traders who benefit from government empowerment funds often receive limited capital, forcing them to buy cheaper stock to keep their businesses running.

“You cannot give someone KSh 20,000 and expect them to afford high-end goods,” he said. “They go for what is affordable and later face penalties.”

Call for Fairness and Legal Redress

The aspirant maintained that if legal action is taken, it should prioritize larger suppliers instead of small retailers. He pledged to support court action if the trader does not get justice or recover her goods.

“If matters go to court, start with the wholesaler,” he said. “We will pursue justice until that woman gets her goods back.”

He also claimed that some counterfeit traders operate openly without disruption while enforcement targets certain individuals.

“Some display counterfeit goods publicly, yet no one questions them,” he alleged.

Promise of Support and Unity

In his closing remarks, Maina urged Eldoret traders to unite and speak together against what he called the unfair treatment of small businesses. He promised personal support, including financial help if needed, to encourage fairness and harmony.

“We are not asking for favors; we are asking for fairness. Whether small or big traders, we are equal,” he said.

He warned that if the pattern continues, traders could organize collective action, especially as political activity rises in the coming months.

“When the time comes, we will speak with one voice,” Maina said. “We must protect small business people who are simply trying to make a living.”