President Ruto defends Gikomba demolitions while accusing opposition of spreading propaganda - April 2026

President William Ruto has defended the recent demolitions in Nairobi's Gikomba market, stating they were part of an ongoing urban renewal process, and accusing the opposition of spreading propaganda. The market is facing a standoff as traders are split over relocation to facilitate a multi-billion-shilling upgrade. Traders whose stalls were demolished are struggling to rebuild their businesses, facing significant financial hardship as they attempt to restart their livelihoods.