Businesses Linked to Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi Demolished Near Nyayo Stadium in Overnight Operation

Several business premises connected to Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi were demolished during a heavy overnight raid near Nairobi’s Nyayo Stadium. The operation, carried out in the early hours of January 14, targeted structures along Douglas Wakiihuri Road, just off Lang’ata Road and adjacent to the railway line.

Contractors, supported by a strong police presence, crushed a car yard, car wash, and restaurant. Debris and damaged vehicles littered the area by morning, disrupting traffic and restricting movement along parts of the road. The demolition sparked shock among onlookers and drew attention across the city, as authorities enforced the clearance operation with visible force.

Nairobi police chief George Seda explained that officers were deployed to assist Kenya Railways in reclaiming the land. He noted that the owners had been given prior notice to vacate but resisted the order. “The repossession is part of an ongoing clearance operation. The owners were notified but did not comply,” Seda stated.

The properties have been linked to Governor Wamatangi’s company, which has leased the land from Kenya Railways for over 20 years. Despite the long-term lease, the rail authority moved to reclaim the site, citing legal and operational reasons. The decision appears to have escalated tensions between public authorities and private business operators in the area.

Governor Wamatangi’s legal team had previously approached the courts seeking protection against demolition threats. They argued that rent had been paid consistently over the years and that the lease was recognized by Kenya Railways. Despite these claims, contractors proceeded with the overnight clearance, raising questions about enforcement procedures and dispute resolution mechanisms.

The demolition underscores ongoing tensions over prime urban land in Nairobi, where disputes between leaseholders and government authorities occasionally turn confrontational. As the city continues to grow, incidents like this highlight the challenges of balancing development, legal rights, and public safety. Residents and business owners in the vicinity are now left to contend with disruptions and uncertainty over future operations.