Catholic Bishops urge transparent dialogue over Laikipia Ebola facility

Jukwaa

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The confrence Tuesday warned against decisions made without public participation and accountability.

Their intervention comes as Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale confirmed that Kenya and the United States have jointly suspended the proposed collaboration, following mounting public concern, legal scrutiny, and a contempt of court matter before the High Court.

The bishops expressed alarm over what they described as a lack of consultation and transparency in the handling of the proposed facility, which was reportedly intended to manage Ebola cases, including foreign nationals.

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The twenty-eight bishops led by Archbishop Maurice Muhatia cautioned that the initiative had raised serious questions about national sovereignty, public safety, and the governance of international health agreements.

“We express our grave concern regarding the proposed establishment of an Ebola quarantine and treatment facility at Laikipia Air Base, mainly for American citizens,” the bishops said.

“This initiative has been imposed on Kenyans without adequate public consultation, parliamentary oversight, or transparent disclosure.”

They warned that any health infrastructure dealing with highly infectious diseases must be subject to full public accountability and scientific clarity, arguing that the lack of engagement had already contributed to tensions and loss of life during protests in Laikipia.

“There is an inherent threat to the life of Kenyan citizens because we would be importing a deadly disease,” the statement added, while questioning whether Kenya should host foreign patients who may not be accepted elsewhere.

Speaking alongside Vice Chair Most Rev. Anthony Muhera and Nairobi Archbishop Philip Anyolo, Muhatia called for structured engagement involving government, religious leaders, civil society, and healthcare professionals.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya

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