Court issues temporary orders to stop construction of stalls in Lions Garden

Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika has been dealt a blow in her bid to renovate Lions Garden after the Environment and Lands Court ruled against the construction of stalls in the public park until the case is decided.

The Trusted Society Human Rights Alliance took the Nakuru County government to court on July 30, arguing that the park should remain a dedicated recreational space. The stalls, the lobby group also argued, could compromise the park's purpose.

On November 22, Justice Millicent Odeny, presiding over the matter, granted a 60-day interim injunction.

"Pending the hearing and determination of this application, the respondents are hereby restrained from erecting any stalls, kiosks or other commercial structures within the Central Park - Lions Garden for a period of 60 days," reads part of the document.

According to the county government, the stalls are being set up to promote local businesses. These, they say, are the nail artisans and photographers who have been operating outside the garden, while also taking care of the environmental aspect.

But environmentalist James Waikibia seems to disagree with the county, saying the garden should be maintained as a recreational park. He adds that no economic activity should take place in the gardens.

He also points out that the Lions Garden is the only carbon sink in the city centre.

Renovations to the Lions Garden began in November last year. 
But it was not until June this year, when the county government approved the construction of stalls in the park, that trouble began. 

John Githanga, a Nakuru resident, has also approached the court seeking an order for the county government to restore the park to its original state and stop the installation of the stalls.

The case will be heard on December 4.