Kiambu Town Member of Parliament, Machua Waithaka, has called for a thorough investigation and accountability following the demolition of 62 market stores in Kiambu Town by the Postal Corporation of Kenya (PCK) on March 10, 2025, an action that left over 340 traders counting heavy losses.
Speaking in the National Assembly, the legislator presented a statement seeking clarity from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Lands regarding the legality and justification of the demolitions, which he said were conducted without prior notice, consultation, or a compensation plan for those affected.
βThe demolitions were reportedly carried out without due process, resulting in the loss of livelihoods for hundreds of families who have depended on their businesses for years,β said Machua.
βPublic actions that impact livelihoods must be executed transparently, fairly, and within the confines of the law.β he added
In his address, the MP requested that the Committee provide:
- A detailed report on the circumstances that led to the demolitions, including whether eviction notices or court orders were issued prior to the exercise.
- An update on measures the Postal Corporation has taken to compensate the affected traders and whether plans for alternative trading spaces exist.
- Clarification on government measures to prevent future demolitions from occurring without adequate notice and due process.
Machua further noted that the matter had been reported at Kiambu Police Station under OB Number 17/10/03/2025, yet no official report or update has been issued months later.
βThis lack of accountability is unacceptable and must be addressed to restore public trust,β he emphasized.
Several traders whose shops were demolished recounted their ordeal, alleging that the demolitions were conducted under police supervision without any explanation or notice.
βI found them demolishing our buildings and when I asked why, they refused to respond and instead moved to the next block,β one trader said, adding that some of their belongings were looted in the process.
The demolitions have since sparked widespread outrage among local residents and business owners, with many accusing the authorities of insensitivity and disregard for economic welfare.
The controversy comes amid a protracted land ownership dispute between the Kiambu County Government and the Postal Corporation of Kenya over two prime parcels of land β one in Makongeni, Thika, and another in Kiambu Town.
In a related development, the Environment and Lands Court in Thika recently issued an interim stay of execution, suspending its earlier order requiring the County Government to vacate the sites.
The courtβs decision provides temporary relief to the affected traders and transport operators who rely on the contested areas for their businesses.
According to court documents, the Kiambu County Government has offered KSh 315 million in compensation to the Postal Corporation β KSh 215 million for the Thika plot and KSh 100 million for the Kiambu Town plot β as part of ongoing out-of-court negotiations.
βThe negotiations have not lapsed,β the County Government stated in its application, expressing optimism that an amicable settlement will soon be reached.
MP Machua Waithaka has vowed to continue pushing for justice and fair compensation for the affected traders.
βWe must ensure that no Kenyan loses their source of livelihood because of administrative negligence or lack of coordination between government agencies,β he concluded.
The parliamentary committee is expected to table its report in the coming weeks as investigations into the demolition and the broader land dispute continue.
