Belgut Member of Parliament Nelson Koech has criticized Trade Cabinet Secretary (CS) Moses Kuria for pushing for the closure of China Square.
Speaking on a local television station on Monday February 27, the MP argued that it was wrong to close down China Square which he says has created job opportunities for hundreds of Kenyans.
“Carrefour is also owned by the French. So, is it only about China?
“Let there be a robust competition and allow Kenya to get products at a cheaper price.
“In fact, we should encourage as many Chinese investors as possible to compete with Kenyan traders,” he said.
Koech says investment can go anywhere and that the governments job is to attract it.
“As soon as we start implementing the laws haphazardly or to suit a certain narrative, we totally lose our competitive advantage”.
Also Read: You are Unfair – Chinese Investors to Trade CS Moses Kuria after Closure of China Square Mall
On Sunday, China square temporarily suspended its operations after Kuria called on it to cease its operation in the Kenyan market.
Kuria had said that he was in talks with Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul Wainaina to buy out the lease for the retailer currently trading at Unicity Mall along Thika Road and hand it over to local traders.
“I have today given an offer to Prof Wainaina the VC Kenyatta University to buy out the lease for China Square, Unicity Mall and hand it over to the Gikomba, Nyamakima, Muthurwa and Eastleigh Traders Association,” the CS stated.
Kuria said that Chinese investors should not trade in Kenya.
“We welcome Chinese investors to Kenya but as manufacturers, not traders.”
