By KPC Reporter
The High Court has temporarily stopped Kajiado County Government from taking over or interfering with the management of Amboseli National Park.
The order comes amid a legal dispute over the park’s control and the implementation of a controversial transfer agreement.
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Justice Gregory Mutai certified as urgent a contempt application filed by petitioner Joseph Kasau Masaa and directed that the matter be heard on July 24, 2026.
Pending the hearing, the court restrained Kajiado County Government, Governor Joseph Ole Lenku and any persons acting on their behalf from “entering upon, invading, taking over, assuming control of, interfering with the operations or management of Amboseli National Park.”
The court further barred the county government from implementing or attempting to implement a Deed of Transfer dated October 14, 2025, which is at the centre of the dispute.
Justice Mutai noted that the temporary orders were necessary pending the hearing and determination of the application dated July 9, 2026.
The respondents and interested parties have been directed to file and serve their responses within seven days after being served, while all parties may file skeleton submissions by July 23.
“Pending the hearing and determination of the Notice of Motion dated 9th July 2026, the 2nd Respondent … be restrained from entering upon, invading, taking over, assuming control of, interfering with the operations or management of Amboseli National Park,” the order states.
The ruling also carries a penal notice warning that “any disobedience or non-observance of the order of the court served herewith will result in penal consequences.”
The latest court action stems from allegations that the county government may have acted in contravention of conservatory orders issued by the High Court in a ruling delivered on December 30, 2025.
Amboseli National Park, one of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife conservation areas, is globally renowned for its large elephant population and views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The park is a major tourism asset, generating significant revenue and supporting conservation and community livelihoods in Kajiado County.
The case is expected to draw national attention as it touches on the management of protected areas, devolution, conservation governance and the relationship between county governments and national institutions responsible for wildlife conservation.
The matter will be mentioned for inter partes hearing before the High Court on July 24.
