Wamatangi Threatens 40-Day Fasting After Nyayo Stadium Property Demolition

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has alleged that the demolition of his property located along Douglas Wakihuri Road behind Nyayo Stadium was an act of political intimidation, saying the move has left him counting heavy losses after decades of investment.

Speaking on Wednesday after visiting the site to assess the damages, Wamatangi said he lost an investment he had built for more than 40 years, claiming the demolition affected multiple businesses operating at the premises, including a car yard, a car wash and a restaurant. He added that the destruction also impacted small traders who depended on the location for their daily income.

The governor further claimed that among the items lost during the overnight demolition was his wife’s car and said the operation had cost him millions of shillings.

Wamatangi questioned why his businesses appeared to be the only target, noting that there were other people occupying the same section of land, which he claimed belongs to Kenya Railways, but their premises were not demolished.

“This is selective. If that land belongs to Kenya Railways, why was mine the only one brought down?” he posed, adding that this was not the first time he had faced threats over the property.

He said he was leaving the matter to God to fight for him, insisting that justice would eventually prevail.

The governor maintained that he was not served with any court order directing the demolitions, raising questions over the legality of the exercise and the manner in which it was carried out.

In a dramatic protest, Wamatangi threatened to camp at the demolished site for 40 days while fasting, insisting that he will not leave until he receives an explanation from the relevant authorities on why he believes he is being targeted.

Despite the setback, Wamatangi said he would not lose hope, vowing to remain firm and continue with his duties.

On Tuesday night, property along Douglas Wakihuri Road behind Nyayo Stadium was demolished in an operation that also reportedly led to the road being blocked off, causing disruption in the area as motorists sought alternative routes.

Meanwhile, the governor’s lawyers claimed the demolition took place despite a court order issued earlier in the day. According to the legal team, a magistrate had instructed Kenya Railways not to interfere with the property until the matter was heard and determined.

The lawyers said they would return to court to seek further directions following the developments of Tuesday night, even as affected traders and property owners continued to assess the extent of the damage.

By the time of publication, authorities had not issued an official statement on the demolitions.