Tension brewed in Kericho on Monday September 1, 2025 after county enforcement officers allegedly attempted to shut down a gas business linked to Nominated MCA Isack Matkeir (ISMA). 

The move sparked heated reactions from residents and business owners, who intervened vigorously to stop the closure, citing allegedly unfair targeting and political retaliation.

The business entrepreneurs in Kericho have now called for a clear separation between business operations and political disputes.

Several traders argued that businesses should not become collateral damage in political battles, particularly following the recent impeachment vote against Governor Erick Mutai, which they claim has escalated divisions.

Local residents joined the traders in condemning the attempted closure, saying such actions threaten livelihoods and disrupt the fragile peace in the county.

Davine Chebet, a worker at the gas business, described how county enforcers came asking for the operating licence, which she promptly showed. 

She added that the officers claimed to have issued a notice of closure, but she insisted no such notice had been received.  

“We want our leaders to resolve their differences in the assembly or through proper channels, not by punishing innocent entrepreneurs,” said Davine Chebet, a worker.

Business owners and residents are demanding assurances from the county government that political affiliations will not dictate who gets to operate freely in Kericho. 

They warned that mixing politics with commerce could discourage investment, create a hostile environment for entrepreneurs, and ultimately affect service delivery to the people.