NAIROBI, Kenya- Amnesty International has welcomed the Kenyan government’s decision to suspend the construction of the proposed United States-funded Ebola quarantine facility in Nanyuki, saying the move demonstrates respect for the rule of law and constitutional governance.
In a statement issued on Monday, the human rights organization praised Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale’s announcement that the project had been halted in compliance with a court order issued pending the determination of a case challenging the facility.
Amnesty said adherence to court orders is a constitutional obligation and urged all state agencies involved in the project to continue observing the directive until the matter is fully determined by the courts.
“Respect for court orders is fundamental to the rule of law and constitutional governance,” Amnesty International Kenya said.
The organization, however, expressed concern over reports of deaths and injuries during protests against the proposed facility in Nanyuki and Laikipia County.
According to Amnesty, at least three protesters, including a 17-year-old student, were killed during demonstrations opposing the project.
Amnesty International Kenya Director George Morara said the use of lethal force against people exercising their constitutional right to protest was unacceptable.
“A government cannot claim to be establishing a facility intended to save lives while lives are being lost through unlawful police action,” Morara said.
The rights group called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to expedite independent and transparent investigations into all reported deaths and injuries linked to the protests.
Amnesty said investigations should not only focus on officers directly involved in the use of force but also examine whether commanders who authorized or failed to prevent unlawful actions bear responsibility.
The organization further demanded the immediate and unconditional release of individuals arrested solely for participating in peaceful demonstrations, arguing that the rights to protest, assemble and express opinions are protected under the Constitution.
Amnesty also urged authorities to engage residents of Nanyuki and Laikipia County through dialogue rather than force, saying communities affected by major public projects should be informed, consulted and allowed to voice their concerns.
The statement also drew attention to the Kenya–United States Strategic Partnership Framework, noting that democratic participation, accountability and respect for human rights are among its key pillars.
Meanwhile, Amnesty International USA’s Africa Advocacy Director Kate Hixon criticized what she described as attempts to undermine respect for judicial processes.
“The Trump administration is encouraging the breakdown of respect for the rule of law not just domestically but in other countries as well,” Hixon said.
The proposed Ebola facility has generated intense public debate in recent weeks, with supporters citing public health preparedness while critics have raised concerns about transparency, public participation and safety.
The government has since suspended construction pending the outcome of court proceedings, while investigations into the deaths reported during the protests continue.
