Several businesses linked to Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi were demolished on Tuesday night along Douglas Wakiihuru Road, near Nyayo Stadium, leaving behind a trail of heavy losses and devastation.
According to eyewitnesses, several excavators and bulldozers, accompanied by heavily armed police officers, brought down two semi-permanent structures and damaged vehicles and other property.
Debris and ruins were still visible early Wednesday, as affected business owners assessed their losses. Police reportedly used live bullets and tear gas to control the scene and intimidate those present.
Governor Wamatangi, through his company Superclean Shine Enterprises, has moved to court, claiming that the property belongs to Kenya Railways and has been leased to him for more than 20 years.
Court papers filed at the Milimani Commercial Magistrates’ Court state that he has consistently paid rent, which has been acknowledged by Kenya Railways.
“Throughout this period, the Applicant has duly paid rent, which has been consistently received and acknowledged by the 1st Respondent,” the petition reads, noting that the business has operated on the premises with Kenya Railways’ knowledge.
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The governor alleges that officers visited the property on December 17, 2025, issuing verbal threats to evict him without any written notice, contrary to the procedures outlined in the Land Act.
He described the demolitions as politically motivated.
“I began here as a small boy selling tea and mandazis and rose to establish the business that was here. What has happened is purely political, intended to silence and intimidate me,” he said.
He added, “I started work here in 1994, washing cars, and eventually began selling cars here. I took a lease, which I pay for each month. Everything that has happened today is political.”
Despite the incident, Wamatangi reiterated his political ambitions, stating, “If you want to be the Governor of Kiambu, you should go to the people and not rely on intimidation. I won’t be intimidated, and I will vie for the governorship without fear or favour.”
Meanwhile, the Kiambu clergy have condemned the demolition near Nyayo Stadium as unlawful and inhumane, saying it destroyed businesses that support many families and worsened economic hardships.
Prince Eliud, General Secretary of the Kiambu Clergy Pastors Forum, said, “What has been destroyed is a business on which people depended for a living. Where will they go now?”
He also criticised the lack of proper notices and described the action as a setback to national unity and progress, while police secured the area during the demolitions.
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