The roar of bulldozers at Nyayo Stadium has sent a chilling message to the political class: in the government’s new land reclamation drive, there are no untouchables. Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has become the highest-profile casualty of a multi-agency crackdown, watching his car wash and carpet-cleaning business reduced to rubble.

The demolition, executed under the cover of darkness, targets structures allegedly encroaching on the Aerodrome Road reserve and railway land. For years, the establishment—popular with Nairobi’s elite—operated with impunity. However, sources at the Nairobi County Government indicate that the lease had expired and the land was flagged for the expansion of the Nairobi Railway City project.

"A Political Witch-hunt?"

Supporters of the Governor have cried foul, terming the move a political witch-hunt designed to tame Wamatangi’s influence in the Mount Kenya region. "This is selective enforcement," claimed a Kiambu MCA. "Why target a Governor who is loyal to the government?"

However, city planners insist the move is strictly technical. "The corridor is critical for the new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and railway link," a city engineer clarified. "We issued notices three months ago. The Governor knew this was coming."

• The Establishment: The business was a landmark near the Nyayo Stadium roundabout, known for its high-end clientele. Its destruction wipes out an investment estimated at over KES 50 million.
• The Signal: By hitting a key ally, the Ruto administration is signaling a zero-tolerance policy on land encroachment, aiming to clear hurdles for donor-funded infrastructure projects that have been stalled by "big fish" squatters.