A woman who was nearly lynched by some angry traders who alleged she is a conwoman has come out to defend herself.
The lady who has now been identified as Sharon had been attacked on Wednesday, May 6, by angry traders at Makandara in the Imenti sub-county of Meru county.
Sharon said that she was elected by all traders within Mutindwa to protect them, air and forward their grievances to the Meru county government. She said that the traders include retailers, plot owners and wholesale shops
“The group was officially registered and given a certificate. The group received an official letter from county government of Meru minister Mr. Maingi Gakando, which is presented to traders prior to payment of a registration fee of Ksh 100,” she said.
“Following payment of the registration fee, a receipt is issued. Makandara traders accused me of forgery and theft. A mob attempted to lynch me, but God saved my life as I was working for Meru County’s trade department,” she said.
A representative from the group said that it was a tragedy for what Sharon had to go through when the Makandara traders accused her of stealing. She urged the residents that when someone commits to working for the public, they should try to uncover the truth.
“We should not take the law into our own hands because it would have been a different story if God had not intervened. Some accused her of stealing,” she said.
“When there is an incident, I urge Meru residents to avoid mob justice. Suspects should be taken to the police station so that investigations can reveal the truth. A mob may lynch a suspect only to discover later that she was innocent,” she said.
“The group advocates for issues such as garbage and a lack of water, among others, that will benefit traders. Sharon is a group official, and any complaints should be directed to the Meru county trade Office for clarification,” she said.
“For registration and facilitation of group operations, a fee of Ksh 100 is charged. When Kiosks are distributed, we ensure justice,” she said.
Mr. Kinoti, a trader, said that Sharon works for the Meru County Ministry of Trade and Cooperatives, which is led by Mr. Maingi Marete.
“When traders are protected, those who protect them should be protected as well. I urge the Meru county government to protect and assist Mutindwa traders,” he said.
