A court has temporarily halted the planned demolition of Gikomba Market after a petition filed by a legal team representing Babu Owino, offering relief to thousands of traders who depend on the busy marketplace for their daily livelihoods.
In a statement on Thursday, the Embakasi East Constituency MP said the court issued orders stopping the demolition pending further directions.
“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.
He described the sprawling market, located in Nairobi, as more than just a trading centre, saying it supports thousands of families and small-scale traders.
“Gikomba is not just a marketplace. It is the heartbeat of thousands of families, small traders, and hardworking Kenyans who depend on it every single day,” he said.
The legislator called on all parties involved to respect the court’s decision and allow the legal process to proceed without interference.
“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.
Gikomba Market is one of the largest open-air markets in Nairobi and is widely known for the sale of second-hand clothes and household goods. The market hosts thousands of traders and attracts buyers from across the country due to its relatively low prices.
The market has in the past faced threats of demolition and restructuring as authorities attempt to reorganise informal trading spaces and improve urban planning in the capital.
However, such plans have often sparked resistance from traders and leaders who argue that sudden evictions could destroy livelihoods for thousands of low-income families who rely on daily sales to survive.
Owino said development projects must consider the welfare of ordinary Kenyans and not undermine their ability to earn a living.
“Development must never come at the cost of humanity. Our people matter. Their businesses matter. Their future matters,” he said.
The court orders are expected to remain in force until the case is heard and determined.
