A Kenyan court has extended the suspension on constructing a US-backed Ebola center near Laikipia airbase, following protests resulting in two fatalities. The decision was made by Justice Nyaundi after an emergency petition by the Katiba Institute, which highlighted the need for transparency in the agreements between the US and Kenyan governments. The court’s order prohibits any further construction or admittance of Ebola-exposed individuals until June 9, when the government is required to disclose its bilateral agreements and operational protocols.
Announced last week by Kenya’s Health Secretary Aden Duale, the facility aimed to bolster Kenya’s preparedness for potential Ebola outbreaks. However, an anonymous US official disclosed that the center would serve exclusively infected US citizens, raising ethical concerns about the bilateral agreement. Despite neighboring countries such as Uganda and Congo experiencing Ebola cases, Kenya remains free of the virus, according to the World Health Organization.
The Katiba Institute has expressed concerns over the public health risks of potentially bringing Ebola-infected individuals into the virus-free country. Accountability and oversight are also concerns, given the secrecy and lack of information surrounding the center. Justice Nyaundi acknowledged these issues, stating that more clarity is needed to adequately assess the case. The case details were reported by JURIST.
The court’s decision followed a protest by hundreds of local residents, resulting in two protestors’ deaths, allegedly due to gunshot wounds after police intervention—an accusation the police have denied. US health official Mehmet Oz addressed the ruling, declining to elaborate on alternatives for exposed Americans and expressing confidence in future negotiations with Kenya. The US Foreign Assistance confirmed awareness of the court’s ruling and is working with Kenyan authorities to address concerns.
The court has scheduled further hearings for June 23, as both nations navigate the complexities of establishing the center amidst public opposition and international scrutiny. Local media coverage can be found through The Nation.