A man was shot dead during a protest against a proposed Ebola quarantine facility for United States citizens in central Kenya, as tensions escalated over plans to establish the centre near a military airbase in Nanyuki.
The fatal incident occurred on Tuesday when police moved to disperse demonstrators gathered near the proposed site at Laikipia Airbase, approximately 190 kilometres north of Nairobi.
According to witnesses, the victim suffered a gunshot wound to the head during the confrontation.
Patrick Wahome, one of the organisers of the anti-facility protests, confirmed the death, while journalists at the scene reportedly saw the victim’s body inside a police vehicle.
Kenyan police had not officially commented on the shooting as of the time of reporting.
Protesters Reject Ebola Facility Plan
Dozens of demonstrators assembled near the airbase carrying placards and symbolic items, including a coffin marked “Ebola,” to express opposition to the proposed quarantine centre.
Many protesters wore protective suits and face masks, reflecting concerns over the possibility of individuals exposed to the deadly virus being brought into Kenya.
The demonstration was later dispersed by security personnel using tear gas, while several participants were arrested.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission accused security forces of using excessive force, alleging that armed officers fired live ammunition and detained protesters arbitrarily.
The rights group stated that at least 19 demonstrators were arrested during the operation.
Growing Public Opposition
Public resistance to the proposed facility has intensified in recent weeks, with critics arguing that Kenya should not host individuals potentially exposed to Ebola, especially as neighbouring countries continue to battle an active outbreak.
The controversy has already triggered multiple demonstrations in Nanyuki, where two people were reportedly killed during earlier protests last week.
Under the proposed arrangement, the United States plans to deploy approximately 30 medical personnel to operate the facility, which would have a capacity of 50 beds.
Supporters of the project argue that the centre would strengthen regional preparedness and disease surveillance, while opponents fear it could expose Kenya to additional public health risks.
Court Halts Project Pending Legal Challenge
The project is currently facing legal obstacles following a petition filed by the Katiba Institute, a Kenyan civil society organization.
Last month, a Nairobi court temporarily suspended plans to establish the facility and barred the admission of individuals exposed to Ebola into Kenya pending judicial review.
The court subsequently extended the order, preventing the government from proceeding with the project until the matter is fully heard.
The next hearing has been scheduled for June 23.
Despite the court action, Kenyan President William Ruto has publicly defended the proposal, arguing that Kenya has a responsibility to support the United States in recognition of years of development and humanitarian assistance.
Ebola Outbreak Continues to Spread
The controversy comes as health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda continue efforts to contain a rapidly expanding Ebola outbreak.
The outbreak, officially declared in May, is linked to the rare Bundibugyo strain of the virus, for which no approved vaccine or treatment currently exists.
According to recent figures released by the World Health Organization, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has recorded more than 500 confirmed cases and over 90 deaths, while Uganda has reported nearly 20 confirmed infections and multiple fatalities.
The WHO has designated the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, citing concerns about cross-border transmission and challenges facing response teams.
Kenya has not recorded any confirmed Ebola cases, but the proposed quarantine centre has become a focal point for public anxiety, political debate and legal challenges as authorities weigh regional health responsibilities against growing domestic opposition.
