MPs demand crackdown on rogue auctioneers accused of using goons to intimidate Kenyans
The MPs said the conduct of unscrupulous auctioneers was not only tarnishing the reputation of legitimate practitioners but also undermining public confidence in the auctioneering profession.
Members of Parliament (MPs) in Kenya have called for stricter measures against auctioneers accused of using intimidation, violence, and private goons to seize property. The National Assembly Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education questioned the Auctioneers Licensing Board about its enforcement record, particularly concerning rogue practitioners.
The MPs warned that weak enforcement and inadequate penalties leave Kenyans vulnerable to financial losses and abuse. Auctioneers Licensing Board's CEO, Festus Terer, stated that the board had been engaging the police to ensure auctioneers use lawful enforcement mechanisms, but further cooperation with security agencies is needed to curb misconduct.
However, some MPs, like Central Imenti MP Moses Kirima, argued that suspending rogue auctioneers alone is insufficient. They called for an effective mechanism to provide redress to victims of misconduct and compensation for those who suffer losses. Terer acknowledged the board's limited authority to order compensation due to legal constraints under the Auctioneers Act.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
