Hundreds of residents in Nanyuki staged protests on Monday, June 1, against a proposed Ebola quarantine and isolation facility at Laikipia Air Base, prompting a heavy security response from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
The demonstrators initially attempted to march toward the military installation but were blocked by armed KDF personnel, who established a tight cordon around the airbase. The crowd was forced to retreat and later redirected their protest into Nanyuki town, where police escorted them along designated routes.
Authorities reported that the demonstrations remained largely peaceful, although there were disruptions including traffic congestion and slowed business activity as protesters moved through the Central Business District.
The protests come amid growing national debate over a reported arrangement involving the United States and Kenya to host an Ebola-related isolation facility. The plan has sparked legal and political opposition, with critics arguing that such facilities should be located closer to outbreak epicentres in West Africa and Central Africa.
The Law Society of Kenya, led by Law Society of Kenya, has opposed the proposal, warning it could expose Kenya to unnecessary public health risks. Meanwhile, Health officials maintain that the country has adequate surveillance and laboratory capacity to handle infectious disease preparedness measures.
Three days earlier, the High Court issued conservatory orders temporarily halting the establishment or operation of any Ebola quarantine or treatment facility under the disputed arrangement, pending determination of a petition filed by Katiba Institute.
Despite the ruling, the matter continues to fuel intense public debate, with leaders and residents in Laikipia expressing concerns over health risks, tourism impact, and national security implications.