Two Killed in Kenya Protests Over US Ebola Centre Plan
Two people have died amid protests in Nanyuki, Kenya, against US plans to build an Ebola isolation centre at a local military base. The demonstrations, which saw protesters blocking roads and burning tyres, were met with tear gas by police. One victim, identified as 27-year-old Charles Mang'aro Mwangi, was reportedly shot while running errands, his family claims he was not involved in the protest. The circumstances surrounding the second death remain unclear, though both showed signs of gunshot wounds. The proposed 50-bed centre, intended for US citizens returning from the Democratic Republic of Congo's Ebola outbreak, has ignited public worry about cross-border infection risks and led to a court-ordered suspension of its opening.
Two people have been shot dead in the Kenyan town of Nanyuki. This happened during protests against a planned US Ebola isolation centre. The demonstrations occurred near the Laikipia Airbase. One victim died after friends brought him to the town’s hospital. The other was already dead when soldiers took him to the hospital. Officials have not yet commented on the exact circumstances. A police spokesman stated he was unaware of any deaths.
Hundreds of demonstrators marched on Monday. They blocked roads and burned tyres in Nanyuki. Nanyuki is about 140 kilometres north of Nairobi. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowds. One of the deceased was identified by his mother. She named him as Charles Mang'aro Mwangi. He was 27 years old. His mother stated he was not part of the protests. He was going about his daily life when he was shot, she said. He was on his way to see a friend after work.
The US plans to build a 50-bed isolation centre. It will treat US citizens affected by the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. US officials cited proximity and airport capabilities as reasons for choosing Kenya. They want to ensure Americans receive timely treatment. The statement mentioned transporting Americans as needed. There are no reports of Americans scheduled for transfer yet. Kenya has not recorded any Ebola cases.
Last Friday, Kenya's High Court ordered a halt to the centre’s opening. A rights group filed a case regarding public health risks. US officials are aware of the court case. They are in contact with Kenyan authorities. They expressed optimism about resolving objections. President William Ruto defended the plan on Monday. He stated Kenya accepted the US request for support. He called it a “mutual agreement” with long-time friends. He urged Kenyans not to politicise the serious issue of Ebola. He advised against “reckless” talk from politicians.
The High Court extended the suspension on Tuesday. The government must now disclose the facility’s details. Military aircraft have been seen at the airbase. Experts suggest preparations continue despite the court order. Kenya's doctors' union opposes the plan. Government watchdogs also raised concerns. They worry about exposing local populations to risks.
Source: StatsGH — Ghana's data-driven news platform