Traders from Gikomba have taken legal action by moving to court to halt the ongoing demolitions of their premises.
They argue that the demolitions, which are happening at night and over the weekend, are unlawful as they were not given proper notices as required by the law.
Represented by their lawyer, Danstan Omari, the traders are seeking an injunction to stop the demolitions and allow them to resume their businesses.
With over 222 traders affected, they claim to have been operating in the area since 1932 and have consistently paid taxes to the Nairobi County government.
They emphasize that Gikomba is not only their place of business but also supports their families, with some citing generations of reliance on the market.
The traders argue that Gikomba serves as a vital hub for commerce not only within East Africa but across the continent.
The court has urged the Nairobi County government to respond to the traders’ application, with submissions from both parties expected by June 10, 2024.
In a show of solidarity, traders rallied at the Milimani Law Court in large numbers, appealing to the court for intervention and calling on the government, including the head of state, to come to their aid.
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