A protest against a proposed Ebola isolation facility in Nanyuki took a tragic turn after a demonstrator was reportedly shot during clashes between police and residents. The incident has intensified public debate around the controversial project, which has already sparked legal battles, political reactions, and growing concern among locals.

Highlights

• A protester was reportedly shot during demonstrations in Nanyuki.
• Residents are opposing plans to establish an Ebola isolation centre for US citizens.
• Protesters accuse authorities of failing to adequately consult the public.
• The proposed facility has already been challenged in court.
• President William Ruto has defended the project, urging Kenyans not to politicise the issue.

Main Story

Protest Ends in Tragedy

A demonstration against the planned construction of an Ebola isolation facility in Nanyuki descended into chaos after a protester was reportedly shot during confrontations with police.

Witnesses said protesters had gathered to oppose the proposed health centre, waving Kenyan flags and carrying placards expressing their dissatisfaction with the project. Some demonstrators also carried a symbolic coffin bearing the word “Ebola” as they marched through the town.

According to accounts from those present, police moved in to disperse the crowds using tear gas, leading to running battles between officers and protesters.

Reports of a Fatal Shooting

The situation escalated when gunshots were heard during the confrontation.

Witnesses and local protest leaders alleged that one demonstrator was fatally shot. Journalists at the scene reported seeing an injured man lying motionless, while others claimed his body was later transported in a police vehicle.

Authorities had not issued an official statement regarding the reported shooting at the time of publication.

The incident comes just days after two other people reportedly lost their lives during similar demonstrations linked to opposition against the facility.

Why Residents Are Protesting

At the heart of the dispute is a proposal to establish a 50-bed Ebola isolation centre near a military installation in Laikipia County.

The facility is expected to be staffed by American medical personnel and would serve US citizens affected by the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

However, many residents argue that the project raises serious public health concerns and accuse both the Kenyan and US governments of failing to provide sufficient information about the plan.

Some local business owners and residents claim the controversy has already affected tourism and economic activity in the region, with fears surrounding the disease discouraging visitors.

Legal Battle Over the Facility

The project has also become the subject of a court dispute.

Last month, the High Court ordered a temporary halt to the opening of the facility after a rights organisation challenged the project, arguing that it could expose local communities to unnecessary health risks.

Despite the court order, reports indicate that construction activities may have continued at the proposed site, raising further questions about compliance with the ruling.

Government Defends the Plan

President William Ruto has publicly backed the proposal, stating that Kenya received a request from the United States to host the facility.

The Head of State argued that turning away individuals seeking treatment during a public health emergency would be irresponsible and urged leaders to avoid spreading fear about the project.

He also appealed to Kenyans to approach the matter with facts rather than political rhetoric, describing Ebola as a serious health issue that requires careful handling.

Meanwhile, US officials have maintained that Kenya was selected because of its strategic location and transport links, which would allow affected Americans to access treatment quickly if needed.

Growing Debate

As the legal process continues and public concern remains high, the proposed facility has become one of the most contentious issues in Laikipia County.

With questions over public safety, transparency, and government accountability still unresolved, pressure is mounting on authorities to provide clear answers to residents demanding greater involvement in decisions that affect their communities.

As emotions continue to run high in Nanyuki, the debate has evolved beyond a health facility becoming a larger conversation about transparency, public trust, and the right of communities to be heard.