LSK, ICJ Kenya call for review of directive targeting foreign traders

Citizens of Burundi outside their Embassy along Dennis Pritt Road Nairobi, September 8, 2026. /EZEKIEL AMING'A

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the Kenyan Section of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ Kenya) have called for a review of the government directive targeting foreign nationals engaged in small-scale trade, warning that its enforcement must respect the rule of law and human dignity.

The two legal bodies said the government has the right to regulate trade and enforce immigration laws but cautioned that such powers must be exercised within the Constitution and Kenya's international and regional obligations.

Their concerns come after President William Ruto directed on September 2 that foreign nationals engaged in small businesses should close down, with enforcement action taken against those operating businesses deemed reserved for Kenyan citizens.