Former Chief Justice David Maraga was reportedly arrested on Monday during demonstrations opposing a controversial infrastructure project inside Nairobi National Park.

The incident has ignited fresh debate over conservation, public participation and the right to peaceful protest.

Maraga was among a group of environmental activists, conservationists and concerned citizens who had gathered outside the park to protest plans that critics say threaten one of Kenya’s most important wildlife habitats.

Videos circulating widely on social media appeared to show the former Chief Justice being bundled into a police vehicle alongside other demonstrators.

The reported arrest immediately drew condemnation from rights groups, with Amnesty International Kenya expressing solidarity with the protesters and calling for greater public involvement in decisions affecting the country’s environmental heritage.

The demonstrators had gathered to oppose the proposed allocation of part of the parkland, arguing that it threatens wildlife conservation efforts and could set a dangerous precedent for the continued encroachment of protected areas.

Activists accused authorities of undermining environmental protection laws and demanded the immediate suspension of any plans to alter the park’s boundaries.

Witnesses said police moved in to disperse the protesters before arresting several participants, including Maraga, who has recently been vocal on governance, constitutionalism, and environmental protection issues.

The arrests sparked criticism from conservation groups and civil society organisations, which described the protest as a peaceful demonstration aimed at defending one of Kenya’s most important wildlife habitats.