Ntutu clashes with local leaders over new Mara plan
By George Sayagie Kenya, February 21, 2023Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu (pictured) is on a collision path with local leaders and members of the civil society over the proposed Maasai Mara management plan.
While Ntutu insists that the master plan would immensely benefit the locals as it intends to enhance efficiency in the management of the game reserve, local leaders claim that the plan, formulated without the locals’ participation, was detrimental as it would lead to the demolition of some property.
A section of politicians led by Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo, Ledama ole Kina (Narok senator) and the unsuccessful ODM gubernatorial candidate in the last elections Moitalel ole Kenta have been urging the governor to shelve the anticipated tabling of the plan in the County Assembly this week to pave way for public participation and consultations among stakeholders.
Move to court
Tongoyo has threatened to move to court to seek orders should the governor proceed with his plans. “Since the issue affects the lives of many people, it would be wrong to present the final report without involving all the tourism stakeholders and members of the community who own land. The Narok county government only manages the Maasai Mara reserve in trust,” said Tongoyo.
The three leaders have joined ranks with a section of the Maasai Council of Elders and land activists to oppose the proposed plan claiming that the local community was not involved in drafting the document.
“The law requires that public participation is conducted so that locals are involved in the formulation of any regulation. But in this case, the public is being hoodwinked to endorse the document and so that it can be rushed to the County Assembly for it to be passed,” Tongoyo said during a thanksgiving ceremony for Gakii Karkarr, a nominated MCA on UDA ticket.