On a Tuesday morning, protests erupted along Nairobi’s Jogoo Road as traders staged demonstrations against planned demolitions at Uhuru Market. The protests disrupted traffic as demonstrators set fires on the road, prompting motorists to seek alternative routes. Previous protests in 2021 led to legal interventions halting eviction proceedings against the traders.
On Tuesday morning, transportation along Nairobi’s Jogoo Road experienced significant disruption as traders protested the proposed demolitions at Uhuru Market. The protests initiated within the market area and subsequently escalated as demonstrators made their way onto Jogoo Road, urging their fellow traders to join them in blocking the thoroughfare to gain attention from authorities.
The demonstrators, primarily traders from Uhuru Market, gathered in large numbers, leading to the ignition of tyres and litter, which obstructed traffic and rendered the road impassable for matatus. The bonfires were predominantly located near the junction with Likoni Road, close to St. Stephen’s Anglican Church of Kenya, causing significant delays for motorists who had to seek alternative routes through Outering Road and Juja Road to enter Nairobi’s central business district.
At the time of reporting, the National Police Service had not responded to the situation nor deployed officers to manage the protests. This event marks a continuation of previous unrest, as traders had previously contested the demolitions in 2021. During that year, legal action was taken to halt the eviction processes when the traders received a temporary reprieve from a Milimani court, which issued a ruling preventing any eviction until further hearings were conducted.
In conclusion, the recent protests on Jogoo Road reflect ongoing tensions surrounding the planned demolitions at Uhuru Market, showcasing the resilience and determination of local traders. The disruption caused significant traffic issues, forcing motorists to seek alternate routes, and highlights the need for effective communication between authorities and the affected community. Past legal interventions indicate a long-standing struggle over the future of the market and the livelihoods dependent on it.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
