Interesting.
I think what is most disappointing is the lack of consultation with the relevant bodies within Kenya itself as well as internationally.
This action seems to have been rushed through - that alone makes one suspect that it is not motivated by what is best so much as what is politically or personally expedient.

http://allafrica.com/stories/200510040699.html

I can't believe that Fodors deleted the text of the above. It was sent around as part of an elephant interest group email. Sheesh.

Anyway, there is probably alot more to this maneuvering around this story. Not only is the move illegal, apparently the new constitution (which is up for ratification) would make this de-gazetting of a national park illegal...which it apparently is anyway. So is this a brazen attempt by the President to get Maasai votes? Will the Maasai fall for this? Will it be declared illegal now? Or later? This is all very confusing.

There was a discussion on the lonely planet board a while ago with everyone moaning over how the increases in park entry fees in Tanzania (and probably Zambia) were so high and a 'rip-off'. But sadly, Kenya (the govt) doesn't get all that much revenue from Amboseli, and I fear this is the kind of thing that happens when the revenues are small-- the park becomes a pawn in domestic political rivalries and battles.

hi jan, just did the petiton. will pass it to friends of eles. people who have not and unable to visit there. can help in this easy way.
david

The high court in Nairobi has accepted a plea challenging the transfer of Amboseli. Great news!

Here’s a thread about this issue on a Kenya forum where I’m lurking: http://www.mambogani.com/forums/inde...showtopic=4433

hi jan and everyone. my tour op in kenya mailed the other saying:
we are all chasing over here to get this stopped!

thx, david

Just received following email from Born Free Foundation:-


The High Court in Nairobi has accepted a plea challenging the decision to
degazette Amboseli National Park. Find out more at http://www.saveamboseli.net
(update 13th October). And look out for further updates over the coming days.