Gachagua raises alarm over alleged harassment of small-scale gas traders

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticized the Kenyan government's actions concerning small-scale liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) traders, alleging targeted harassment, arbitrary arrests, and seizures of their property. In a statement issued prior to his departure for an eight-week trip to the United States, Gachagua claimed that his statements were representing millions of small-scale traders who have been facing oppression and extortion for several weeks.

Gachagua stated that Kenya has between four million and five million micro and small retail enterprises that play a significant role in supplying essential goods to households. The small-scale gas sector has faced increasing pressure from enforcement agencies in recent years, according to Gachagua. He alleged that the government had not supported small-scale traders as initially promised by President William Ruto in 2023.

Instead, Gachagua claimed that the government subjected these traders to systemic harassment, seizure of their businesses and equipment. Gachagua accused the government of targeting small-scale gas retailers in Nairobi, Kiambu, Kajiado, and Machakos, stating that more than 200,000 gas cylinders were seized between June and October 2025.

He also pointed to the establishment of a police unit in Hurlingham, Nairobi, which he claimed was not a gazetted police station, and alleged that it was involved in operations targeting LPG retailers. Gachagua accused some senior police and energy sector officials, including Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, of being involved in the enforcement operations.

He demanded an investigation into the alleged seizures and called for the return of the seized gas cylinders and compensation for affected traders.