Violence Breaks Out During Anti-US Ebola Facility Demonstration in Nanyuki
Police in Nanyuki, Laikipia County, clashed with demonstrators on Tuesday as residents protested against plans to build a US-backed Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base.
Officers fired tear gas and warning shots into the air to disperse crowds opposing the construction of the proposed 50-bed centre. The confrontation came after local police banned the demonstrations, despite earlier indications that peaceful protests would be allowed.
Nanyuki Police OCS Michael Ndirangu said the ban was necessary because of previous unrest, including damage to property and attacks on police officers. The decision angered many residents, who ignored the directive and marched through the town carrying coffins and crosses as symbols of their opposition.
The planned facility has become a major point of contention in the area. Kenyan authorities have stated that the centre would be used for both Kenyan citizens and foreign nationals. However, US officials have described it as a quarantine site for Americans who may have been exposed to Ebola but are not showing symptoms.
Anyone who develops symptoms would be transferred elsewhere for treatment.
The project has raised concerns among residents who believe Kenya is being used to prevent potential Ebola cases from entering the United States. These concerns have been reinforced by statements from Washington that it will not permit Ebola patients to enter the country.
Although court orders have sought to stop construction, evidence from satellite images and flight records suggests work at the air base has continued. US military aircraft have reportedly transported personnel and equipment to the site in recent weeks, and white tents have been erected across an 11-acre section of the base.
The continuation of the project despite court rulings has increased criticism from local residents and human rights organisations, which argue that both governments are failing to respect judicial decisions. The dispute has already claimed lives. Two people were killed during earlier demonstrations, highlighting the tensions surrounding the project.
