Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly criticized the late-night demolition at Gikomba Market, labeling the operation as inhumane and a direct assault on small-scale traders.
During a press conference on March 31, 2026, in Makueni, Gachagua accused the government of conducting these demolitions under the cover of darkness, claiming that such actions persecute ordinary Kenyans striving to earn a living.
He stated that thousands of traders suffered losses amounting to millions of shillings during what he characterized as a cowardly raid.
“It is utterly unjust for a government to treat its citizens in such a manner, as we witnessed at Gikomba Market, Nairobi. I unequivocally condemn this inhumane treatment,” Gachagua asserted.
He emphasized that many traders experienced the destruction of their properties and goods valued in the millions during what he termed a politically motivated operation.
Political Motives
Gachagua alleged that the demolitions represented more than just an enforcement action; they formed part of a larger political strategy aimed at intimidating certain segments of the Nairobi populace.
Wiper Patriotic Front Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka echoed Gachagua’s sentiments, condemning the displacement of numerous traders.
“At 4 AM, the Ruto administration bulldozed Gikomba Market without warning or dignity, leaving traders to face the rubble of their livelihoods. A government that harms its own people loses the right to govern,” Kalonzo stated.
Gachagua reminded the public that they campaigned in 2022 with a promise that this government would not engage in destruction.
He pointed out the irony of the Gikomba raid, noting that the very regime that claimed to support small-scale traders is now dismantling their livelihoods under the cover of night.
“We made a solemn pledge during our campaign for this regime in the lead-up to the 2022 General Elections: we would not destroy property or forcibly evict people, especially not at night,” Gachagua said.
Impeachment Context
Gachagua also connected the incident to his conflict with President William Ruto, claiming that his refusal to execute similar evictions contributed to his impeachment.
He accused President Ruto of being disconnected from the realities faced by ordinary Kenyans, particularly small-scale traders and farmers, while favoring powerful business interests.
“It is important to note that one of the charges leading to my unjust impeachment stemmed from my refusal to comply with illegal and inhumane orders from William Ruto to carry out forced evictions and night raids,” Gachagua remarked.
Connection to Arrest of Sakaja
Gachagua further linked the demolition to the reported arrest of Johnson Sakaja, suggesting that the two events were interconnected.
He argued that the arrest served as a calculated distraction from the planned demolitions.
“The actions of William Ruto, in collaboration with Nairobi City County Governor and other aggressive security personnel, pose a significant threat to our nation. The arrest aimed to divert public attention,” Gachagua noted.
