NAIROBI, Kenya- Activist Francis Awino has moved to the High Court seeking orders to suspend ongoing cabro paving and related public works in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), alleging that the projects are being implemented in violation of procurement laws and without adherence to mandatory legal procedures.
In a judicial review application, Awino is challenging the legality of the procurement and implementation framework governing the ongoing works, arguing that the projects lack transparency and procedural compliance.
According to court documents, the petition questions the legality, procedural propriety, transparency and procurement compliance of the cabro paving, walkway installation and other related public works currently underway within Nairobi’s CBD.
“The said judicial review application challenges the legality, procedural propriety, transparency, procurement compliance and implementation framework of the ongoing cabro paving, walkway installation and related public works being undertaken within Nairobi Central Business District,” the court papers state.
Awino contends that the ongoing works have disrupted pedestrian movement by blocking walkways and exposing pedestrians and other road users to unnecessary safety risks.
He also alleges that public funds continue to be spent on the projects despite what he describes as significant legal and procedural shortcomings in the procurement and implementation processes.
Seeks Conservatory Orders
The activist is seeking judicial review orders of certiorari, prohibition and mandamus, alongside conservatory orders staying the implementation of the contested public works, procurement processes and related administrative decisions pending the determination of the case.
In addition, Awino has filed a Notice of Motion requesting the High Court to certify the matter as urgent and hear it during the Judiciary’s August court vacation, which runs from August 1 to September 15, 2026.
He argues that waiting until the normal court calendar resumes could allow the projects to be completed, effectively rendering the judicial review proceedings and any eventual court orders ineffective.
Raises Safety Concerns
Apart from procurement issues, Awino has raised concerns over what he describes as inadequate public safety measures at the construction sites.
He claims there is an absence or insufficiency of warning signs, safety barriers and other protective measures required to safeguard pedestrians and motorists navigating the affected sections of the CBD.
According to the application, the alleged shortcomings have increased risks to members of the public using the city’s busy streets during the ongoing construction works.
