The Milimani Commercial Court has ordered police officers to supervise an auction in a rent dispute involving businesswoman Honey Khatwani, Galaxy Middle East & Africa Limited trading as Smart Pro, and their landlords.
Senior Principal Magistrate Lucy Njora issued the orders on August 15, 2025, in a case filed under MCCCMISC/E2036/2025.
The case involves Zacharia Baraza of Siuma Auctioneers and Oki General Trading Ltd against Galaxy Middle East & Africa Ltd and its directors, including Honey Khatwani.
Court allows distress for rent process
The landlords moved to court seeking to recover rent arrears, claiming that unpaid obligations had affected their operations.
After hearing the application, Magistrate Njora directed the OCS Parklands Police Station and OCS Ruaraka Police Station to supervise the auctioneer during the distress for rent process.
“This court issues an order that the police officers in charge of Parklands and Ruaraka police stations do supervise execution of the distress,” the court stated.
The order allows the auctioneer to proceed with the recovery of outstanding rent through the legal distress process.
Court clarifies police role
Magistrate Njora clarified that the order does not amount to an eviction or demolition order.
The magistrate stated that the police officers would only supervise the execution of the distress for rent and ensure that the process follows the court’s directive.
The court also warned that any party who disobeys the order could face penal consequences.
Landlords and company take different positions
The landlords welcomed the ruling, saying it protects property owners dealing with unpaid rent.
They argued that tenants must honour rental agreements and meet their financial obligations.
However, supporters of Honey Khatwani criticised the action, arguing that commercial disputes should be resolved through negotiations instead of enforcement measures.
They described the auction process as unnecessary pressure against a business facing financial challenges.
Dispute involving Galaxy Middle East & Africa Ltd
The case involves Galaxy Middle East & Africa Limited, which operates as Smart Pro (Your Trust Our Mission), and its directors.
The landlords accused the company of failing to clear rent arrears, leading them to seek court intervention.
The court order now allows the auctioneer to proceed while police provide supervision during the process.
Commercial dispute attracts attention
The matter has attracted interest among Nairobi business circles, with traders watching how the dispute unfolds.
The case highlights the challenges between landlords and tenants when rental obligations remain unpaid.
For now, Honey Khatwani and Galaxy Middle East & Africa Ltd face the possibility of an auction as the legal process continues.
