NAIROBI, Kenya — Leaders from Laikipia County have opposed the reported plan to establish an Ebola quarantine and treatment facility in the county, demanding full disclosure from the national government over the alleged proposal.
In a joint statement released on Friday, Members of Parliament from Laikipia expressed concern over reports that Kenya could host an Ebola quarantine and treatment centre linked to ongoing international public health discussions.
The statement was signed by Mwangi Kiunjuri, Sarah Korere, Wachira Karani, and Jane Kagiri.
Leaders Demand Clarity From Government
The MPs said residents deserved transparency regarding any plans involving the establishment of a quarantine or treatment facility in the county.
“Our collective conscience is greatly disturbed by the news that there is an intention by the Government of Kenya to have an Ebola Quarantine and Treatment Facility in Laikipia County,” the leaders stated.
While acknowledging the importance of coordinated global efforts to combat infectious disease outbreaks, the MPs questioned why the government had allegedly not provided full disclosure on the matter.
They also raised concerns over reports suggesting involvement of the United States government and questioned why such a facility would not instead be established closer to the source of the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Questions Raised Over Public Health and Safety
The legislators questioned the rationale behind selecting Laikipia as the proposed location for such a facility.
“In our view, and as the representatives of the Great People of Laikipia County, we see no logic in Kenya and Laikipia County hosting such a facility,” the statement read.
The MPs maintained that the safety of Kenyans must remain the highest priority and urged the government to provide clear public communication on the issue.
The statement comes amid growing political and public debate surrounding reports of a proposed Ebola treatment or quarantine centre in Kenya.
Political Debate Intensifies
The matter has recently attracted reactions from opposition leaders and sections of civil society, with some accusing the government of failing to adequately explain the alleged plans.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua earlier praised the High Court over a ruling linked to the proposed facility while criticising President William Ruto’s administration.
