Tensions remain high in Nanyuki after 17 protesters arrested during demonstrations against a proposed Ebola quarantine facility warned that they could return to the streets on Tuesday if the project is not abandoned.
The protesters were among 31 people arrested during Monday’s demonstrations and later charged with unlawfully obstructing motor vehicles. They were released on a cash bail of KSh10,000 each.
Following their release, some of them insisted that their concerns had not been addressed and threatened fresh protests unless authorities halt plans linked to the facility.
The demonstrations began peacefully, with residents marching to the Laikipia Air Base to express their opposition to reports of a planned Ebola quarantine centre.
However, the situation later changed after the protesters returned to Nanyuki town, where clashes erupted between demonstrators and police officers.
The proposed facility has generated debate among residents and local leaders, many of whom have questioned the level of public involvement in the decision-making process.
Laikipia Deputy Governor Reuben Kamuri called for consultations before any action is taken regarding the project.
Kamuri said residents had clearly expressed their opposition to the establishment of an isolation or quarantine facility within the Laikipia Air Base or the wider Nanyuki area. He stressed that if discussions on the matter are necessary, all stakeholders should be involved to ensure transparency and public participation.
The concerns emerged after reports indicated that the United States was planning to establish an Ebola quarantine base in Kenya.
The plans reportedly included arrangements for transporting Americans within the region to the facility whenever required, including through the use of aircraft.
Questions about the project grew after satellite images reviewed by Reuters showed that a section of land measuring about 11 acres inside the Laikipia Air Base had been cleared between May 27 and early June.
By June 4, several white tents had reportedly been erected on the site, while vehicles were observed moving within the area. An eyewitness also claimed that aircraft carrying personnel and heavy equipment had landed at the base.
The issue has already had serious consequences. At least two people lost their lives earlier in the week during protests linked to the proposed facility. Although a court has since suspended the establishment of the quarantine centre, discussions around the project continue.
The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi has stated that it remains engaged with the Kenyan government in efforts to address concerns and resolve objections surrounding the proposal.