MPs demand crackdown on auctioneers using goons to seize property

Members of Kenya's National Assembly have demanded stricter measures against auctioneers who employ intimidation tactics and excessive force during property seizures. During a review of Auditor-General reports, the Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education expressed concern over weak enforcement, which exposes Kenyans to intimidation, financial losses, and abuse.

Chairing the committee, Luanda MP Dick Maungu emphasized the need for tougher action, stating that unlicensed operators are damaging the reputation of legitimate auctioneers and eroding public confidence in the profession.

The Auctioneers Licensing Board (ALB) acknowledged the issue and revealed that they had approached the Inspector-General of Police, Douglas Kanja, to tackle the problem. ALB CEO Festus Terer informed the committee that the board had also educated auctioneers on the necessity of seeking police assistance when security is needed. However, MP Moses Kirima from Central Imenti stressed that disciplinary action alone was insufficient.

He questioned the procedures in place to compensate people who suffer financial losses due to rogue auctioneers, emphasizing that suspending the offender is not enough.

Terer explained that the board has intensified inspections to identify non-compliant practitioners, including a recent one-week inspection exercise that led several auctioneers without proper offices to seek new addresses. The board's ability to compensate victims is limited due to Section 24 of the Auctioneers Act, which has been challenged in court.

As the committee continues its examination of the Auditor-General's reports, it is expected to recommend improvements in regulation, enforcement, and the protection of the public from unscrupulous auctioneers.