The High Court has issued fresh orders stopping the establishment and operation of a proposed Ebola quarantine, isolation and treatment facility in Kenya, dealing another setback to a project that has sparked national debate in recent weeks.
The orders were issued following a petition challenging the alleged arrangement involving a foreign-backed Ebola preparedness facility. The court directed that the suspension remain in place pending the hearing and determination of the case.
In its ruling, the court barred government agencies and officials from establishing, approving, facilitating or operationalising any Ebola exposure, quarantine, isolation or treatment facility linked to the disputed arrangement.
The court further prohibited the admission, transfer or facilitation of individuals exposed to or infected with Ebola under the contested programme until the matter is fully heard and determined.
The decision came after the Attorney General reportedly failed to appear in court during proceedings related to the petition.
In a major development, the court also ordered the government to provide full disclosure of all information related to the proposed facility.
Authorities have been directed to make public any agreements, memoranda, arrangements or negotiations connected to the project. The disclosure is expected to provide clarity on the nature of the proposal and the parties involved.
Additionally, the government has been ordered to release details of any public health, environmental, biosafety and security assessments conducted in relation to the facility.
The court also directed officials to disclose approvals obtained from Parliament, regulatory agencies and relevant county governments, if any exist.
Further information to be released includes protocols intended to govern the admission, handling, isolation and treatment of persons exposed to Ebola.
During the proceedings, lawyers representing the petitioner informed the court that attempts to access the proposed project site had been unsuccessful. They urged the court to intervene and ensure transparency regarding the planned facility.
The ruling is expected to intensify scrutiny of the project, which has already generated public concern and political debate across the country.
Questions have been raised over public participation, health preparedness, environmental safeguards and the broader implications of hosting such a facility.
The latest orders now place the spotlight on the government to provide comprehensive information regarding the project and its legal framework.
Until the case is heard and determined, the conservatory orders will remain in force, effectively freezing any plans to proceed with the proposed Ebola facility.
The outcome of the petition is expected to shape future discussions on public health preparedness, transparency and the handling of major international health partnerships in Kenya.
