Former Chief Justice David Maraga Arrested During Nairobi National Park Protest
Former Chief Justice David Maraga was arrested on Monday, June 8, alongside at least nine environmental activists during protests against ongoing construction works and land clearing inside Nairobi National Park, sparking renewed debate over conservation, public participation, and the future of Kenya’s protected natural spaces.
The demonstrations took place outside the main entrance of Nairobi National Park, where environmentalists, conservation groups, and civil society organizations gathered to oppose plans involving the clearing of approximately 76 acres of indigenous upland forest within the park. Protesters argue that the project threatens one of Kenya’s most iconic conservation areas and could set a dangerous precedent for future encroachment on protected land.
According to reports from the scene, police officers dispersed demonstrators using tear gas before arresting several participants, including Maraga. The former Chief Justice was later released after being detained while attempting to present a petition to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
Why Are Activists Protesting?
At the center of the controversy is a project approved by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) that allows the conversion of approximately 31 hectares previously designated as a protected Low Use Zone within Nairobi National Park.
The cleared land is expected to accommodate the relocation and expansion of the Nairobi Animal Orphanage, including a modern wildlife hospital and upgraded animal enclosures. However, the development also includes plans for a large parking facility capable of serving more than 1,000 vehicles and supporting the nearby KSh41.9 billion Bomas International Convention Centre (BICC) project. A pedestrian overpass linking the park to the convention complex is also planned.
Conservationists argue that the project blurs the line between environmental conservation and commercial development. Critics have questioned whether adequate public participation was conducted and whether the development complies with existing park zoning regulations.
Journalists Report Equipment Confiscation
The protest also drew concern from media freedom advocates after reports emerged that journalists covering the developments had equipment confiscated.
Former BBC journalist Ian Wafula reported that a drone being used to document the construction activities inside the park was seized, raising concerns about transparency surrounding the project and the treatment of journalists covering environmental issues.
The allegations have intensified calls for greater openness regarding the ongoing developments and the environmental impact assessments that informed the approvals.
Conservation Groups Move to Court
Environmental organizations, including Friends of Nairobi National Park, have filed petitions before the Senate and initiated legal proceedings challenging the project.
The groups allege irregular procurement processes, insufficient public consultation, and potential violations of environmental protection laws. Amnesty International Kenya, Greenpeace Africa, the Green Belt Movement, and several other organizations have also condemned the arrest of peaceful protesters and called for authorities to respect constitutional rights to assembly and public participation.
In a joint statement, the organizations described the arrests as an assault on civic participation and urged the government to prioritize dialogue and transparency over force.
Maraga’s Growing Activism Since Leaving Office
Since retiring as Kenya’s Chief Justice in January 2021, David Maraga has increasingly positioned himself as a vocal advocate for governance reforms, constitutionalism, environmental protection, and human rights.
In recent years, he has participated in demonstrations addressing police brutality, unexplained abductions, rising living costs, and governance accountability. He has also publicly supported campaigns against femicide and gender-based violence, calling for stronger government intervention to protect women and children.
Maraga has further criticized unilateral government decisions affecting public resources, including previous increases in entry fees to public recreational and conservation areas that were implemented without extensive public consultation.
His appearance at Monday’s protest highlights his continued involvement in civic activism as environmental concerns increasingly become a national political issue.
Nairobi National Park at the Center of a National Debate
Nairobi National Park remains one of the world’s most unique wildlife conservation areas, located only a few kilometers from Nairobi’s central business district and home to species including lions, rhinos, leopards, buffaloes, and numerous bird species.
Supporters of the development argue that modernizing wildlife facilities and improving visitor infrastructure will strengthen conservation efforts. However, opponents contend that commercial projects should never come at the expense of protected ecosystems and that alternative locations should be considered.
As court cases proceed and public scrutiny intensifies, the dispute has evolved into a broader national conversation about environmental governance, conservation priorities, and the balance between development and ecological preservation in Kenya.
