Activist Francis Awino has moved to the High Court seeking to stop ongoing public works and procurement processes in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), alleging that the projects are being undertaken unlawfully and without adherence to mandatory legal procedures.
In a judicial review application, Awino challenges the legality, transparency, procurement compliance and implementation framework surrounding ongoing cabro paving, walkway installation and other related public works within the CBD.
He argues that the works have disrupted pedestrian movement, blocked walkways and exposed pedestrians and other road users to potential danger.
Awino further alleges that public funds continue to be spent on the projects despite what he describes as procedural and legal shortcomings in the procurement and implementation processes.
“The said judicial review application challenges the legality, procedural propriety, transparency, procurement compliance and implementation framework of the ongoing cabro paving, walkway installation and related public works being undertaken within Nairobi Central Business District,” court papers state.
The activist is seeking judicial review orders of certiorari, prohibition and mandamus, as well as orders staying the implementation of the disputed works, procurement processes, implementation arrangements and related administrative decisions.
Alongside the substantive judicial review proceedings, Awino has filed a Notice of Motion asking the High Court to certify the matter as urgent and allow it to be heard during the Judiciary vacation period running from August 1 to September 15, 2026.
He argues that delaying the hearing until after the court recess could allow the disputed works to be completed, potentially rendering the judicial review proceedings and the remedies he is seeking nugatory.
Awino has also raised concerns over alleged inadequate public safety measures at the affected areas, including what he says is an absence or insufficiency of signage, barriers, warning devices and other measures intended to protect pedestrians and road users.
The application is now awaiting directions from the High Court.
