Wamatangi Condemns Latest Demolition of His Businesses Near Nyayo Stadium

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has accused state agencies of unlawfully demolishing businesses linked to him in Nairobi, describing the operation as politically motivated.

The demolitions took place late Tuesday night along Douglas Wakiihiru Road near Nyayo Stadium. Bulldozers flattened semi-permanent structures used as a car wash and restaurant, while several vehicles parked at the site were damaged. Armed police officers were present during the operation.

On Wednesday morning, the Governor visited the site accompanied by religious leaders, who led prayers amid the rubble. He said the property is owned by his company, Superclean Shine Enterprises, and maintained that it is held under a valid long-term lease issued by the Kenya Railways Corporation. Wamatangi told reporters that he began operating at the site in 1994 and later secured a 65-year lease, for which he has consistently paid rent.

Wamatangi has filed a petition at the Milimani Commercial Magistrates’ Court seeking protection from what he describes as an unlawful eviction. According to court filings, Kenya Railways issued verbal threats of demolition in December 2025 but did not serve a formal written notice as required under the Land Act.

His lawyers argue that the demolition violated constitutional protections on property rights and fair administrative action. The petition says that rent payments have been acknowledged by Kenya Railways, which, according to the Governor, confirms the existence of a valid and ongoing tenancy.

The Governor’s businesses have previously been demolished under similar circumstances. In 2019, while he was serving as Kiambu Senator, his car bazaar and car wash were torn down following allegations of land grabbing. He denied the claims at the time, saying his occupation of the land was lawful and supported by lease agreements with Kenya Railways.

Wamatangi has linked the latest demolition to political interference, accusing his opponents of using state institutions to undermine him. He said no written notice was served and claimed that court orders were ignored. He added that any political contest should be settled through elections rather than administrative actions.

The presence of police during the demolition and the lack of formal eviction notices have raised questions about the process followed.

The demolition has disrupted nearby businesses and restricted access along the road. Traders reported losses, and debris remained scattered across the site by Thursday morning.

The matter is now before the courts, where judges will determine whether the demolition complied with the law and whether the lease claimed by the Governor is legally enforceable.