In a bold move to defend the rights of Nairobi’s hustlers, Hon Mwaniki Kwenya, Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Nairobi Central, today confronted City Council officers (“kanjos”) over the confiscation of goods belonging to small-scale traders. The incident occurred at the Nairobi Council offices, where Kwenya demanded justice for traders whose merchandise had been seized by enforcement officers.
According to the MCA, the officers were loading the confiscated items into a lorry destined for disposal in Dandora, despite the goods belonging to struggling entrepreneurs who rely on them for survival.
Standoff with Authorities
In an emotional standoff, Hon Kwenya attempted to stop the lorry transporting the seized goods, nearly leading to his arrest. Eyewitnesses reported that the MCA stood his ground, insisting that the officers were unfairly targeting hardworking Kenyans trying to make an honest living.
“These are not criminals; these are hustlers trying to feed their families,” Kwenya declared. “How can we preach about economic empowerment when the very people meant to enforce the law are the ones destroying livelihoods?”
Traders Arrested While Demanding Justice.
As tensions escalated, several traders who demanded the return of their goods were arrested and taken to Central Police Station, where they await prosecution. The MCA condemned the arrests, calling them an abuse of power. “Instead of supporting small businesses, our people are being harassed and locked up. This is unacceptable,” Kwenya stated.
Call for Intervention Presidential Intervention
Hon Kwenya urged President William Ruto to intervene and ensure transparency in how City Council operations are conducted. He emphasized that the government should protect, not punish, small-scale traders. “The President must ensure fairness. If we are truly about empowering hustlers, then let’s see action, not oppression,” he said.
The incident has sparked outrage among Nairobi traders, with many calling for reforms in how county enforcement officers handle street vendors. As the debate continues, Hon Kwenya’s bold stance has earned him praise from fellow hustlers, who see him as a champion for their rights.
