Court Halts Planned Demolition of Gikomba Market Following Legal Action by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino

A court has issued orders stopping the planned demolition of Gikomba Market after legal action was filed to protect traders and livelihoods tied to the historic marketplace.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Babu Owino, the Member of Parliament for Embakasi East, confirmed that his legal team successfully moved to court to halt the demolition.

“Through our legal team, we moved to court to stop the demolition of Gikomba Market, and the Court has issued orders to stop the demolition,” Owino said.

The MP described Gikomba as more than just a trading center, calling it “the heartbeat of thousands of families, small traders, and hardworking Kenyans who depend on it every single day.”

Gikomba Market, one of Nairobi’s largest open-air markets, supports thousands of small-scale traders dealing in clothes, household goods, fresh produce, and second-hand items. The proposed demolition had sparked concern among traders who feared displacement and loss of income.

Owino emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting vulnerable citizens, noting that development initiatives should not come at the expense of livelihoods.

“The rule of law exists to safeguard citizens, especially the vulnerable. As we comply fully with the Court’s directions, we call on all parties to respect the orders issued and allow due process to take its course,” he said.

He further urged authorities and stakeholders to prioritize humane and inclusive development, stressing that economic progress must not undermine the dignity and survival of ordinary Kenyans.

“Development must never come at the cost of humanity. Our people matter. Their businesses matter. Their future matters,” he added.

The court orders are expected to remain in effect pending further directions, offering temporary relief to traders as the matter proceeds through the legal process.