NAIROBI, Kenya — Former Deputy President and United Alternative Government leader Rigathi Gachagua has claimed that the attempted arrest of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja was strategically timed to divert public attention away from the controversial demolition of Gikomba Market, a move he alleges was orchestrated by the government.
Speaking during a press briefing in Makueni County, Gachagua condemned the late‑night demolition of parts of Gikomba Market, describing it as an “inhumane and brutal” operation that unfairly targeted small‑scale traders and destroyed livelihoods without warning.
Gachagua directly linked Sakaja’s arrest to the demolition exercise, asserting that the detainment was intended to distract Kenyans from the public backlash over the government’s actions at Gikomba Market.
“The arrest was meant to divert public attention,” he said, accusing the administration of orchestrating events to manipulate the national discourse and shield controversial policies from scrutiny.
Although the specifics of Sakaja’s arrest have not been detailed by authorities in relation to the market demolitions, Gachagua’s remarks reflect rising political tensions and deep opposition scepticism about the timing and motivations behind high‑profile state actions.
Outrage Over Gikomba Demolition
The demolition, carried out in the early hours under heavy security presence, saw stalls and merchandise flattened, leaving traders counting losses after decades of operating in one of Nairobi’s busiest informal markets.
Gachagua warned that such enforcement measures were not just urban planning moves but political manoeuvres designed to intimidate and silence dissent.
He condemned the government for what he described as a pattern of heavy‑handed tactics against ordinary citizens, arguing that strategic timing of Sakaja’s arrest was symptomatic of a broader effort to distract Kenyans from issues affecting their livelihoods.
Broader Political Criticism
Gachagua’s criticism reflects broader opposition frustrations with the leadership of President William Ruto, including claims of mismanagement and political strategizing.
The opposition has repeatedly called for greater accountability and transparency from the government, particularly around actions perceived to impact vulnerable communities.
As political tensions simmer ahead of future elections, Gachagua and allied leaders have insisted that events such as high‑profile arrests and demolitions cannot be viewed in isolation but as part of a larger narrative shaping public opinion and political momentum across the country.
