MP Babu Owino condemns Gikomba demolitions, says court order ignored

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has condemned the demolition of parts of Gikomba market, terming the exercise unlawful and a violation of traders’ rights.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, the legislator said he stood in solidarity with traders whose businesses were destroyed despite the existence of court orders barring the demolition.

Owino described the affected traders as hardworking Kenyans who depend on the market for their daily livelihoods, noting that many wake up before dawn to sustain their families and contribute to the local economy.

“Despite obtaining court orders to protect their businesses, their premises were still demolished. This is not just a violation of the law; it is a violation of dignity, trust, and justice,” he said.

The MP faulted the authorities behind the operation, arguing that disregarding court directives undermines the rule of law and erodes public confidence in institutions meant to protect citizens.

He warned that such actions risk setting a dangerous precedent where legal protections can be ignored without consequence, particularly to the detriment of ordinary wananchi.

“We cannot build a fair society if the rule of law is ignored, especially at the expense of ordinary citizens,” Owino stated.

He called for accountability from those responsible for the demolition and urged relevant agencies to respect court orders and uphold the rights of traders.

Owino reaffirmed his support for the traders, whom he represented in their court case against the demolition, vowing to continue pushing for justice and protection of their livelihoods.

“Their struggle is our struggle. Their resilience is our inspiration. We will not be silent,” he added.

The High Court previously directed that status quo be maintained at Gikomba market and surrounding areas along the Nairobi River pending the hearing of an urgent application filed by traders.

"The current status quo on the suit land be maintained," ruled Lady Justice Lilian Kimani on March 4, 2026.

In the case, the petitioners – through lawyer Babu Owino - moved to court arguing that they had been issued with a 14-day notice threatening to demolish permanent multi-storey residential and commercial structures belonging to over 3,000 members.

The demolition was carried out on the night of Monday, March 30, flattening structures in the shoe section of Gikomba Market, leaving traders counting losses.

Footage from the scene showed bulldozers and excavators clearing the area, with traders later seen combing through debris in an attempt to salvage goods.

Opposition leaders have since argued that the manner in which the exercise was conducted failed to consider the welfare of affected traders, many of whom depend on the market for their daily income.