Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja hit back at his critics as he strongly defended the proposed relocation of Wakulima Market traders to Kangundo Road.
Sakaja has been the subject of criticism in recent days over the relocation, with a section of traders making their feelings known through protests on Thursday, September 12.
While addressing President William Ruto and congregants at Stewards Revival Pentecostal Church, the governor divulged that there was a need to relocate the traders to a less congested market for their own safety.
Sakaja referenced the tragic Londiani junction tragedy in 2023 where 55 people, the majority of whom were roadside traders, lost their lives.
Protesters at the Muthurwa market on Thursday, September 12.
“We’ve spoken to the leaders at the market and we came to an agreement. We can’t have a situation where in town, women are seated on the road while lorries are also passing by,” he said.
“Remember Your Excellency, in Londiani, 52 women were killed because of an accident on the road. But when I say we have to relocate our traders, some political leaders want to oppose it.”
In an open show of dissent towards his critics, Sakaja vowed not to relent in his pursuit of a way to decongest the city center.
Sakaja was seemingly issuing a rejoinder to two key political figures, who publicly opposed the relocation initiative.
On Thursday, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua issued a lengthy statement, urging Sakaja to have a sit down with the leadership at Wakulima market.
Days later, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka took things a notch higher by threatening to go to court to oppose the move which he claims would adversely impact the livelihoods of the traders.
Sakaja’s move to relocate traders is part of a bigger plan to decongest the Nairobi Central Business District.
Traders are being encouraged to move to Kangundo Road market, which can host 5000 small businesses.
In a bid to encourage traders to move, the Nairobi governor announced a two-month waiver on cess payment, which is usually collected from traders.
A photo of the newly constructed Kangundo Road Market, September 2024
Photo
Nairobi County
