The leaders strongly opposed Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s plan to relocate traders from Wakulima Market, a move that has sparked outrage among the city's business community.
Speaking during a roadside rally attended by a large crowd, Kalonzo Musyoka made it clear that they stand with the traders and would not allow the county government to disrupt their livelihoods.
He criticized Governor Sakaja's plan, calling for the county to use the available land at Wakulima Market for development instead of forcing the traders to move elsewhere.
“We will stand with Kenyans. The Nairobi County government should develop the 5.5 acres here at Wakulima Market instead of relocating these hardworking traders to another place," Kalonzo said.
This statement came after Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua publicly voiced similar concerns over the market relocation plan. Gachagua had previously accused Governor Sakaja of turning his back on the common people who voted for him, urging him to reconsider the decision.
According to Gachagua, the traders placed their trust in Sakaja, and it is only right that their voices be heard.
“These traders trusted you and gave you their votes. It’s only fair that you listen to them. Forgive me if I seem to be intruding, but they are turning to me because I was your guarantor when it came to trust. Please, my brother, give them an ear,” Gachagua stated in his address to Sakaja.
Gachagua also urged Sakaja to sit down with the leadership of the market and discuss any changes that may be needed without negatively affecting the traders’ livelihoods.
He warned that decisions made without proper consultation could have serious consequences for the people who depend on the market for their income.
The proposed relocation of the traders from Wakulima Market has become a contentious issue in Nairobi, with many traders arguing that the plan would disrupt their businesses and lead to financial losses.
The market is a key economic hub in the city, and thousands of traders depend on it to make a living. Many of these traders feel that relocating would be both inconvenient and costly.
The presence of Kalonzo Musyoka, Jeremiah Kioni, and Ferdinand Waititu at the rally indicates growing political pressure on Sakaja to reconsider his plan. The leaders, known for their influence in both local and national politics, have added weight to the traders' concerns by standing in solidarity with them.
All eyes are now on Governor Sakaja to see how he will respond to the mounting criticism. Will he heed the calls of Deputy President Gachagua and other political figures to rethink his relocation plan, or will he push ahead with the changes despite the public outcry?
For now, the traders at Wakulima Market, along with their political supporters, continue to stand firm in their opposition, hoping for a favorable outcome that allows them to continue their work without disruption. The decision by Sakaja will likely have a significant impact not only on the traders but also on the political landscape in Nairobi as key figures align themselves with the city's business community in this ongoing dispute.
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