Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has expressed his solidarity with traders facing eviction from Nairobi’s Wakulima Market amidst a contentious row with the county government.
Visiting the market on Saturday, September 14, 2024, Kalonzo pledged unwavering support to the affected traders.
“We will stand together with Kenyans. Nairobi County government should have developed the 5.5 acres here instead of sending the hard-working traders elsewhere,” Kalonzo affirmed.
Earlier announcements from the Wiper Party leader underscored his intention to visit the area to address the concerns of Wakulima Market traders, who recently protested against a notice issued on September 10, 2024, mandating their relocation to the newly constructed Kangundo Road market.
Eviction notice
The traders, who expressed their discontent through protests on Thursday, September 12, 2024, have been at odds with Nairobi County management over the eviction notice, calling into question the county’s development plans for the area.
The management attributed the relocation to decongesting the Nairobi Central Business District for smooth vehicle traffic and human flow.
“Public notice messages, it has been decided that all onion, pineapple, oranges and potato traders operating outside and inside the market relocate to Kangundo Road market where there is spacious trading space and ample parking for business this notice takes effect immediately, “part of the relocation notice reads.
“This is to bring to your attention the Nairobi city county government’s decision to decongest the Nairobi central business district for smooth vehicle traffic and human flow. Kindly comply with the notice.”
Gachagua to Sakaja
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urged Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja to meet with traders from Wakulima Market before proceeding with any eviction plans.
In a statement on September 12, 2024, Gachagua reminded Sakaja of a promise they made during the 2022 campaign to protect the traders’ livelihoods.
Gachagua emphasized the importance of public consultation, noting that evicting the traders without discussion would break their earlier commitment.
“My younger brother Governor Johnson Sakaja, traders from Wakulima Market in Nairobi County, have called me and reminded me of the undertaking you and I jointly gave them in July 2022 as I campaigned for you in Muthurwa,” Gachagua stated.
Adding
“We gave a commitment that our administration will never disrupt their lives or undermine their economic activities. Our Constitution provides for public participation before any major decisions that have a serious impact on the welfare of our citizens, are taken.”
“Kindly, do consider having a sitting with the leadership of the market to agree on whatever changes your Government desires without adversely affecting their livelihoods. These traders gave your their trust and vote, and it is only fair you give them an ear,” he added.
