Wetang’ula warns against hatred of foreign traders

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By NATION TEAM
Posted  Wednesday, August 22  2012 at  23:30

Trade minister Moses Wetang’ula has cautioned MPs and leaders against making xenophobic statements targeting Chinese and other foreign traders in the country.

The minister on Wednesday told Parliament that such remarks would endanger the lives of Kenyans doing business in other countries.

He said Chinese businessmen were protected by law as long as they carried out legitimate business in Kenya.

Several MPs had questioned the engagement of Chinese businessmen in small trades such as hawking.

Local businessmen have openly protested against the Chinese traders, claiming they were hawking cheap wares that were a threat to the local market.

There are also claims that some of the Chinese traders do not have work permits.

Mr Wetang’ula, however, said some of the statements could undermine the safety of Kenyans living and doing business in foreign countries including Guangzhou, China.

“If Kenyans have a right to go and work out there, then we need to be careful and guard our language as leaders,” he said.

He said no one was above the law but that he was not aware of Chinese businessmen engaging in illegitimate business.

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The minister accused Mathira MP Ephraim Maina and Mathioya’s Clement Wambugu of making xenophobic statements.

“There are thousands of Kenyans doing business out there and I have personally seen Kenyans hawking their wares in Guangzhou,” he said.

Mr Maina had stated that the minister was answering the questions raised by MPs recklessly.

“I warn the minister that in Zambia the election had nothing to do with anything else other than the way the Chinese had been given a free hand in the local market. As you answer recklessly please make sure you are watching the coming elections,” he said.

“It is not only in business and trade, foreigners are also taking up our jobs and should be stopped,” Mr Wambugu said.

Reported by Njeri Rugene, Caroline Wafula and Alphonce Shiundu