High Court halts government's Ebola facility plans amid legal challenge
via Tuko1 min read
The High Court has issued conservatory orders preventing the Kenyan government from establishing or operating any Ebola quarantine, isolation, exposure, or treatment facility under an arrangement with the United States or any other foreign government. This decision follows a petition filed by Katiba Institute. Justice Nyaundi Patricia Mande also prohibited the entry into Kenya of individuals exposed to or infected with Ebola under the challenged arrangement. Furthermore, the court has ordered President William Ruto's administration to disclose all agreements, negotiations, approvals, risk assessments, and operational protocols related to the proposed facility within seven days. Katiba Institute stated that these orders aim to maintain the current state of affairs, prevent irreversible actions, and ensure transparency and public accountability regarding public health, sovereignty, and constitutional governance.
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Must ReadThe United States government has issued a travel advisory for its citizens in Kenya following violent demonstrations in Nanyuki on Monday, June 1, against the planned establishment of an Ebola quarantine facility for Americans. The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi warned that protests in Laikipia might extend to other major Kenyan towns, including Nairobi. The advisory highlighted that demonstrations in Kenya frequently involve a substantial police presence, potentially causing traffic and security issues. The U.S. Embassy advised American citizens to be vigilant, avoid crowds, and monitor local media for updates on road conditions due to potential protests in urban areas that could disrupt transport, businesses, and public services. Citizens were also advised to keep doors locked and windows rolled up while in a vehicle, review personal security plans, and notify friends and family of their whereabouts and safety.
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Must ReadDetectives from Kenya's Directorate of Criminal Investigations DCI have arrested Edwin Gathangi Waiguru, a 44-year-old former Roman Catholic priest, in Kirigiti, Kiambu county. He is accused of publishing online content on a Facebook account named "Kinta Kinte II" that allegedly advocated for the unlawful removal of the government. Investigators claim the content detailed plans for prolonged street demonstrations in June 2026, attacks on public and private properties, tax boycotts, and the creation of an alternative transitional administration. Waiguru, who reportedly left the Roman Catholic Church to join the Catholic Charismatic Church, is said to have continued church-related activities in Nairobi's Riruta area. The DCI stated that preliminary findings suggest the online publication may have exceeded the limits of lawful political expression by allegedly encouraging actions capable of undermining constitutional order. Waiguru is expected to face charges under Section 401aiii of the Penal Code, which addresses attempts to unlawfully overthrow a legally established government. This arrest follows another recent apprehension of David Onyango Elgon, also known as MC Adek Tatu, in Mombasa over separate allegations of inflammatory social media content. The DCI has warned citizens about responsible online engagement, emphasizing that the digital space is subject to legal accountability and that freedom of expression does not extend to content promoting violence or unconstitutiona