Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has backed the High Court decision suspending the establishment of an Ebola-related facility in Kenya under a reported arrangement involving foreign agencies.
In a statement released on X, Gachagua praised the Judiciary for what he described as protecting constitutional order and defending public interest. He said the courts must remain firm in preventing actions that could endanger citizens or bypass public accountability.
The High Court issued conservatory orders stopping the government and its agents from establishing or operationalizing any Ebola quarantine, isolation or treatment centre linked to the contested arrangement until the case is heard and determined.
The ruling also bars authorities from facilitating the entry of Ebola-exposed or infected persons into Kenya under the disputed programme pending further court directions.
Gachagua also commended health professionals and Kenyans who publicly raised concerns over the alleged plans. According to him, the reaction reflects growing public anxiety over health security, transparency and the country’s preparedness to handle highly infectious diseases.
The controversy intensified after the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union opposed the reported arrangement, warning against turning Kenya into what it termed a “containment zone” for foreign health emergencies.
The union called for full disclosure of any agreements linked to the proposed facility and demanded wider public participation before any decision was implemented.
The petition before the court was filed by Katiba Institute, which argues that the arrangement raises constitutional concerns related to sovereignty, biosafety preparedness and accountability.
The matter is expected back in court on June 2, 2026, for further directions.
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