Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has raised concerns over the purported handover of Amboseli National Park to Kajiado County, claiming local leaders misled residents with unfounded assurances.
Speaking during his political tour in Kajiado County on August 12, 2026, Gachagua questioned the legitimacy of celebrations marking the park's transfer to the county government. He recounted a conversation with Kajiado Senator Seki, who had attended the event, expressing disbelief that leaders would endorse what he described as a baseless handover.
Gachagua stated, "This Amboseli handover was a lie. I asked Seki why he would support falsehoods from Kasongo, neglecting the people's welfare to listen to such deceit."
He further disputed claims that Kajiado would assume management of Amboseli starting July 1, 2026, emphasizing that no formal transfer had taken place. According to him, some leaders applauded the announcement without any actual change in control.
Gachagua added, "Since July, there has been no Amboseli handover. Kasongo had no intention of giving the park to Kajiado people."
The former Deputy President accused the government of staging the event to create a false impression that Kajiado had gained control over Amboseli National Park, which he insists is untrue.
Advocating for Kajiado Residents
He urged that the issue be addressed with the interests of Kajiado communities in mind, especially those living alongside wildlife and bearing conservation costs. Gachagua claimed he is the only leader capable of fulfilling the promise of transferring Amboseli to the locals.
"The person who can deliver Amboseli to the people of Kajiado is Riggy G, a man who speaks the truth," he affirmed.
Background: Ruto's Official Handover
On November 8, 2025, President William Ruto announced the handover of Amboseli National Park to Kajiado County during the Maa Cultural Festival held at the park. The declaration vested full management authority of the park to the county government.
President Ruto stated, "I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, hereby ordain that the management of Amboseli National Park is vested in Kajiado County government."
Despite this, the management and benefit-sharing arrangements remain politically sensitive, with local leaders advocating for greater control and revenue allocation to Kajiado communities.
