The court issued the interim orders after advocate Charles Mugane filed a public interest petition challenging KFS’s control of the park.
Court halts KFS control of City Park
The petition argues that KFS took over management of City Park illegally and without proper public participation.
Justice handling the matter directed KFS to stop managing, entering, collecting fees, or interfering with Nairobi City County’s operations at the park.
The court also ordered KFS to explain any agreement it has with the county government regarding City Park management.
The matter will come up for mention on October 22, 2025, when the court will give further directions on the petition.
Advocate challenges park takeover
Charles Mugane filed the case against KFS, Nairobi City County Government, and the Attorney General.
Environmental organizations, including the Green Belt Movement and Nature Kenya, joined the matter as interested parties.
According to court documents, the dispute began after KFS allegedly assumed control of City Park around 2019.
Mugane claims KFS deployed forest rangers who took charge of park operations and started collecting revenue from businesses operating within the facility.
Petition raises revenue accountability concerns
The petitioner accused KFS officials of failing to provide clear records on money collected from City Park.
He argued that the agency’s actions violated public finance accountability requirements.
The court has now ordered KFS to submit accounts showing all revenue collected from the park since 2019.
The financial audit will help determine how the agency managed income generated from park activities.
Dispute emerges over City Park fencing plan
The petition also challenges a proposed fencing project at City Park.
Mugane claimed that KFS organized a public participation exercise that only involved selected groups.
He argued that restricting access to the park would affect Nairobi residents who use the public recreational space.
The petitioner asked the court to protect City Park as a public asset available to all residents.
Court reviews legal ownership of City Park
The petition relies on the Forest Conservation and Management Act, arguing that county governments have authority over recreational parks and arboreta.
Mugane also cited constitutional principles requiring public participation, accountability, and respect for devolution.
The petitioner presented a gazette notice dated August 11, 2025, which identified City Park as a recreational park under Nairobi City County Government.
He argued that the document supports his claim that the county should manage the facility.
Court issues interim protection orders
The court has temporarily barred KFS from controlling City Park as the legal dispute continues.
The agency must also provide financial records and details of any management agreement involving the park.
The final decision will determine who has legal authority to manage Nairobi’s historic green space and how its resources should be handled.
