Even with a previous court order that prevented the construction of the health facility, satellite image records revealed that construction activities continued, generating intense debate in the Kenyan territory.
After weeks of intense public discussion, Kenyan authorities have decided not to move forward with plans to establish an isolation unit for US citizens with possible exposure to the Ebola virus. The measure takes place in the midst of the hemorrhagic fever epidemic affecting the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the fear that infected individuals could reach the country, which until then had not registered cases, was great. The medical structure would be built at the Laikipia military base, near Nanyuki, in central Kenya.
Health Minister Aden Duale had to appear in the High Court of Kenya last Tuesday, June 23, responding to accusations of disregarding a court ruling issued on May 29 that had ordered construction to stop. Satellite photographs confirmed the continuity of the work, showing the erection of new tents, the expansion of existing facilities and the inclusion of temporary structures. Information obtained through aerial monitoring and diplomatic sources indicated that aircraft with medical supplies and specialized teams continued to land at the base.
At the end of the hearing, the minister announced the immediate interruption of all operations and initiatives related to the project until there is a definitive court verdict. While acknowledging the Supreme Court’s authority, Aden Duale argued in favor of the initiative, declaring that concerns about the possible spread of Ebola to neighboring communities were “scientifically unfounded” given the strict security precautions designed for the site.