Transport along Nairobi’s Jogoo Road was severely disrupted due to protests by traders against planned demolitions at Uhuru Market. Following their march, they blocked the highway, igniting tyres and litter, which led to significant traffic delays. Previous protests have occurred over similar issues, with traders having obtained temporary court orders to prevent eviction.
On Tuesday morning, significant disruption was observed along Nairobi’s Jogoo Road as traders protested against impending demolitions at Uhuru Market. The demonstrations commenced at Uhuru Market, subsequently escalating as the protesters marched towards the highway, demanding attention to their grievances. The situation quickly intensified, with traders expressing their frustrations openly, declaring, “Let us go to Jogoo Road and block the way so that they can listen to us.”
Protesters set ablaze tyres and litter on the highway, effectively halting all transportation and rendering the road impassable for matatus. These actions primarily took place near Likoni Road, close to St Stephen’s Anglican Church of Kenya. Consequently, motorists were compelled to seek alternative routes, such as Outering Road or lesser-known feeder roads, to navigate around the extensive traffic jams that formed.
As of the time of this report, the National Police Service had not responded, and law enforcement officers had not yet intervened to disperse the demonstrators. This protest is not an isolated incident; similar events occurred previously as traders opposed the demolitions. In 2021, the matter escalated legally, with traders successfully halting evictions from the market following a court order that protected them until the case was resolved.
The protests on Jogoo Road highlight ongoing tensions between traders at Uhuru Market and authorities regarding proposed demolitions. The issue underscores a recurring conflict and the traders’ determination to voice their grievances. With previous legal interventions, the situation remains unresolved as stakeholders seek a sustainable solution.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
