Anti-Ebola Protesters in Nanyuki Announce Another Strike Over Quarantine Facility Plans
The latest development comes just days after violent demonstrations rocked the Laikipia town, leaving at least two people dead, several others injured, and dozens arrested as residents voiced concerns over reports that a quarantine facility could be set up within the Laikipia Air Base.
The protesters were released after appearing in court and securing cash bail of KSh10,000 each. They had been charged with unlawfully obstructing motor vehicles during the demonstrations.
What began as a peaceful march quickly escalated into confrontations with law enforcement officers after hundreds of residents walked to the Laikipia Air Base before returning to Nanyuki town. The situation later deteriorated as clashes broke out between protesters and police, resulting in injuries and widespread disruption of business activities.
The proposal has sparked widespread concern among residents, many of whom fear potential health risks and argue that local communities were not adequately consulted before plans for the project emerged.
Speaking after the unrest, Laikipia Deputy Governor Reuben Kamuri called for broader public participation and dialogue before any final decision is made regarding the facility.
“Anything to do with an isolation or quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base or within the Nanyuki area, people have said they do not want it. If there are issues that require engagement, then all stakeholders must be involved,” Kamuri said.
The deputy governor emphasized that transparency and community involvement would be essential in addressing public concerns and preventing further unrest.
By June 4, several white tents had reportedly been erected on the site, with vehicles observed moving in and out of the area.
Additional eyewitness accounts claimed that aircraft carrying personnel and heavy equipment had landed at the airbase in recent days, further intensifying speculation regarding the nature and scope of the planned facility.
The controversy has also moved to the courts. A judicial order recently suspended the establishment of the quarantine facility pending further legal review, temporarily halting implementation plans and providing a measure of relief to opponents of the project.
Despite the court intervention, community leaders and protest organizers insist that uncertainty surrounding the facility remains unresolved and have called for a complete cancellation of the proposal.
For its part, the United States Embassy in Nairobi has stated that it continues to engage with the Kenyan government and relevant stakeholders regarding the matter.
“We continue to engage with the Government of Kenya to address concerns and resolve issues surrounding the proposed project,” embassy representatives indicated.
As the dispute continues, security agencies remain on high alert amid fears that renewed demonstrations could trigger further unrest. Authorities have urged residents to remain peaceful while legal and diplomatic processes continue.
With public emotions still running high and questions surrounding the proposed facility yet to be conclusively answered, all eyes will be on Nanyuki next week as residents, leaders, and government officials seek a path forward on one of the region’s most contentious issues in recent years.
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Anti-Ebola Protesters in Nanyuki Announce Another Strike Over Quarantine Facility Plans
