Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa has stirred fresh political debate after accusing President William Ruto’s administration of allegedly using Ebola fears to create panic and pave the way for a possible nationwide lockdown.
In a strongly worded statement, the senator questioned reports suggesting Kenya could be considered for quarantine arrangements linked to Ebola response efforts involving the United States. He argued that the country should not expose itself to additional health risks while still struggling with challenges within the local healthcare system.
According to Thang’wa, the government could allegedly use fear surrounding dangerous diseases such as Ebola and Hantavirus to create a crisis atmosphere capable of influencing political developments ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The outspoken senator further claimed that the administration had previously relied on intimidation and fear tactics, and was now allegedly shifting focus to public health concerns to justify stricter control measures.
“This is part of a strategy to induce fear and create a crisis,” he claimed, while questioning why Kenya should allow itself to host quarantine facilities tied to some of the world’s deadliest diseases.
Thang’wa also criticized the state of Kenya’s healthcare system, saying the country remains underprepared to handle major disease outbreaks despite ongoing reforms and investments in the health sector.
“Why should Kenya allow America to use our soil as a quarantine ground for some of the world’s deadliest diseases, yet our health sector remains one of the most disorganized and underprepared?” he posed.
The remarks come amid increasing public discussion following reports that the United States could explore establishing quarantine or treatment facilities in Kenya for Americans exposed to Ebola in parts of Central and East Africa.
The reports have sparked mixed reactions across the country, with some leaders and members of the public raising concerns about public safety, while others accuse politicians of using fear-driven narratives to gain political mileage.
The government has, however, maintained that Kenya has strengthened its disease surveillance systems and emergency response mechanisms. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale recently said the country has activated preparedness measures, intensified screening at entry points, and improved coordination systems to handle emerging health threats.
As debate around the Ebola issue intensifies, the matter is increasingly becoming part of the country’s wider political conversation, especially with the 2027 elections drawing closer.
