Former CS Raphael Tuju Forcibly Evicted from Karen Property by Armed Police in Predawn Raid
Former Cabinet Secretary and ex-Foreign Affairs Minister Raphael Tuju was dramatically removed from his Dari Business Park property in Karen, Nairobi, during an early morning operation on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
According to Tuju, a contingent of over 50 armed police officers from the Rapid Response Unit stormed the premises around 3 a.m., using unmarked vehicles, overpowering his security guards, and forcing him out of the compound. He recorded a video message from outside the gate, claiming the officers presented no court order or legal authorization for the eviction, describing the action as "pure impunity" and "law of the jungle." Tuju vowed strong resistance, stating he would not leave voluntarily and was prepared to die defending the property.
The eviction follows a prolonged legal dispute tied to a multi-billion-shilling loan (reported figures varying between Ksh1.9 billion and Ksh2.2 billion) owed to the East African Development Bank from about a decade ago. Recent court developments include a High Court ruling on March 9, 2026, by Justice Josephine Mong’are that struck out Tuju’s amended application and lifted prior injunctions protecting the properties from auction or disposal. Although Tuju obtained a brief reprieve on March 12 when the court certified his application for leave to appeal as urgent (with mention set for March 17), the police action has now sealed off the premises, locking out Tuju, his office, and approximately 25 businesses operating within the compound. Auctioneers had previously attempted to take control earlier in the week, accompanied by security and individuals.
In his statements, Tuju expressed deep frustration and defiance, emphasizing the lack of due process amid ongoing appeals to higher courts, including efforts to challenge the High Court’s orders. He has also raised broader concerns about judicial conduct in the matter, having written to Chief Justice Martha Koome earlier in the week. The incident has sparked discussions on rule of law and enforcement in property disputes, with Tuju remaining outside the locked gate as police maintain control of the site. The property, a high-value commercial facility, remains inaccessible pending further legal proceedings.
