Kenya’s ex-Chief Justice Mutunga arrested in protest over Nairobi Park construction

Kenya’s former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga was arrested on Monday while joining a protest against construction plans inside Nairobi National Park.

Mutunga, a prominent legal figure and activist, was among demonstrators opposing what they described as encroachment on protected land. Police detained him alongside several activists, sparking outrage among conservationists and civil society groups.

The protest was organised to challenge government-backed development projects that critics say threaten the park’s biodiversity and heritage.

Nairobi National Park, famous for its wildlife and proximity to the capital, has long been a symbol of Kenya’s conservation efforts. Demonstrators argued that building within the park undermines environmental protections and violates constitutional guarantees of public participation in land use decisions.

Mutunga’s arrest has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organisations, who view it as an attempt to silence dissent.

Supporters insist his detention highlights the growing tension between development interests and environmental preservation in Kenya. Calls are mounting for his immediate release and for authorities to halt construction plans until a transparent review is conducted.