Governor Wamatangi Breaks Silence After Demolition of His Businesses Near Nyayo Stadium

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has spoken out after his multi-million-shilling business premises located near Nyayo Stadium were demolished in an operation carried out overnight under heavy police presence.

The governor, who visited the site on Wednesday morning, claimed the demolition was politically motivated and aimed at frustrating his leadership and development agenda in Kiambu County.

Wamatangi said the property, situated along Douglas Wakiihuri Road, was legally acquired through a lease agreement with Kenya Railways, adding that he has been making regular monthly payments for the land.

“I went to Kenya Railways, took a lease, and I pay for it every month. What we are seeing here is not about the law — it is pure politics,” Wamatangi said.

The UDA governor questioned why he continues to face what he termed as political persecution, saying the demolished premises had provided employment opportunities for many young people over the years.

“I am asking myself when this political witch-hunt against me will end. This place has employed many youths, and now their livelihoods have been destroyed,” he added.

According to Wamatangi, the demolition was carried out without prior notice, despite his legal team securing court orders stopping any planned destruction of the property.

“There was no notice whatsoever. If anyone claims otherwise, let them come forward with evidence. We even obtained court orders after receiving intelligence that the premises were under threat,” he stated.

The demolition, which took place on Tuesday night, involved excavators and bulldozers that flattened several structures as police officers guarded the area. Among the properties destroyed were a car wash, a restaurant, and several vehicles parked within the compound.

Photos seen by Nairobileo.co.ke showed mangled vehicles, collapsed structures, and debris scattered across the site, painting a picture of widespread destruction.

Wamatangi termed the incident an act of cowardice meant to divert his attention from serving the people of Kiambu.

“This is meant to distract and intimidate me, but it will not work. I have resolved to focus fully on delivering development to the people of Kiambu without engaging in early politicking,” he said.

While insisting that he is not currently campaigning, the governor made it clear that the demolition would not derail his political ambitions ahead of the 2027 General Election.

“I am going to work for the people of Kiambu until 2027. And yes, God willing, I will be the governor of Kiambu after the next election,” he added.

This is not the first time Wamatangi’s property has been demolished. In 2019, his car bazaar and car wash businesses were also brought down after authorities claimed the land had been illegally acquired — allegations he has previously denied.

The latest demolition has sparked debate online, with Kenyans questioning due process, the role of enforcement agencies, and the increasing intersection between politics and state action.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statement explaining the basis of the demolition.