Kenya's health minister, Aden Duale, has told a court he ordered the cessation of preparations for a US-run Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia air base, after being held in contempt for ignoring a previous high court order to stop work. The facility, intended for US citizens evacuated from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has sparked widespread opposition and deadly protests in Kenya.
The high court had initially ordered a halt to construction last month after rights groups petitioned, arguing the facility was being developed secretly without consultation. Despite this, the government continued preparations, leading to Monday's contempt ruling against Duale. On Tuesday, Duale apologised and stated he had ordered 'the immediate and complete cessation of any intended construction, site preparation, or related activities' pending the court's final decision. Judge Patricia Nyaundi Mande discharged him with a warning.
Specialist staff and medical equipment continued to arrive at the airbase after the initial court order, according to US officials and Reuters. Satellite imagery from 22 June showed a buildup of structures, including tents and paved areas. Three people have been killed in protests against the quarantine centre, which was planned to have about 50 isolation beds managed by US medical staff.
Kenya has never recorded an Ebola case, and many oppose bringing potential carriers into the country. Dr Davji Atellah from the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union said last month: 'If it is too dangerous for America, it is too dangerous for Kenya.' Duale defended the facility, calling fears of spread 'scientifically unfounded', while President William Ruto said Kenya was doing 'the right thing'. The US has promised $13.5m (£10.2m) to support Kenya's Ebola preparedness, but critics cite colonial overtones.
The Ebola outbreak in the DRC has seen over 1,000 confirmed cases and more than 250 deaths as of 20 June, with 20 cases and two deaths in neighbouring Uganda. The World Health Organization declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern on 17 May. The current strain, Bundibugyo virus, has no vaccine or approved treatment.
