With just months left to the completion of the modern Jinja central market, some vendors have petitioned Jinja Municipality East MP Paul Mwiru for help.

They fear they may not be allowed to get stalls in the new establishment. The anxious vendors, who are now operating in the muddy Kazimingi area, have asked Mwiru to allay their fears.

"We were convinced to leave our stalls to this muddy area, to allow the construction of a better and modern market. But now we hear that we shall have to buy the stalls as though we are new in the market," Hasifa Nalukenge, a secondhand clothing vendor, complained.

Nalukenge's fears were fuelled by reports that small-scale vendors would not be allowed into the sprawling three storey market. Mwiru assured the vendors there was no need to be afraid.

Jinja Central Division district councillor Meddie Mbentyo also dismissed the fears as baseless. But the vendors remain restless.