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

President William Ruto has defended the recent demolitions in Nairobi's Gikomba market, accusing the opposition of spreading propaganda. He stated that the demolitions were part of an ongoing urban renewal process. Nairobi's Gikomba 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. Separately, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja is calling for an end to political incitement surrounding the ongoing relocation exercise, urging leaders to stop misleading the public.