Democracy for the Citizens (DCP) party leader, Rigathi Gachagua, has strongly criticized the government for deploying police officers during late-night demolitions of roadside structures in Githurai, describing the operation as a “cowardly move against traders and residents.”
Speaking on Thursday, February 19, Gachagua said the demolitions, carried out by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), reflected a worrying misplacement of human priorities. “At the very same hour, a tragedy was unfolding in Isiolo where a Deputy Principal and teacher was brutally attacked by bandits, yet police resources were focused on demolishing lawful businesses in Nairobi,” he said.
Gachagua described the demolitions as a grave affront to human dignity and accused senior officials of being detached from the everyday struggles of ordinary Kenyans. “Treating citizens as criminals while they navigate a weakened economy shows a leadership disconnected from reality,” he added.
Residents of Githurai had staged protests the previous day, arguing that the new market stalls offered to them were too small and insufficient for the number of traders. They also raised concerns over alleged corruption in the allocation process.
The DCP leader further criticized Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, saying public claims of supporting small businesses are contradicted by government actions that “punish rather than protect” traders.
Gachagua called for humane relocation plans, fair compensation, and urgent review of policies that affect vulnerable communities. He emphasized that sustainable development must prioritize people, not destruction.
 party leader, Rigathi Gachagua, has strongly criticized the government for deploying police officers during late-night demolitions of roadside structures in Githurai, describing the operation as a “cowardly move against traders and residents.”){kind=link}