Marsabit municipality defends parking Fees

Marsabit Municipality has defended the introduction of parking fees within the town, saying the decision was reached after following all legal procedures and engaging relevant stakeholders.

Speaking at the municipality offices on Thursday, Lands and Urban Development Chief Officer and Marsabit Municipality board member Galm Guyo said the parking charges were implemented in accordance with the finance Act and after consultations with the County Assembly and members of the public.

Guyo noted that while the municipality has not yet fully rolled out an electronic revenue collection system, plans are underway to introduce the platform to seal loopholes associated with corruption in the collection and utilization of the funds.

Marsabit Municipality Manager Boru Golicha said the parking fees are intended to promote order and discipline in parking within the town for the benefit of all residents and road users.

However, the new charges have drawn criticism from some boda boda operators in Marsabit town, who argue that the fees come at a time when they are already grappling with harsh economic conditions and high fuel prices.

The operators also expressed concerns over the location of designated motorcycle parking bays, saying they are situated too far from customers and could discourage clients from walking long distances to access their services.

According to Marsabit Municipality, the daily parking charges have been set at KSh50 for motorcycles and private vehicles, KSh100 for matatus, KSh200 for buses, and KSh500 for cargo trucks.