In a landmark decision delivered on Tuesday, the court directed the government to disclose within seven days all agreements, approvals, risk assessments, negotiations, and operational protocols related to the proposed Ebola facility. The court also maintained conservatory orders barring the establishment or operation of any Ebola-related quarantine, isolation, or treatment centre pending the hearing and determination of a constitutional petition challenging the
project. The case was filed by the Katiba Institute and later joined by the Law Society of Kenya, both of which argue that the proposed arrangement raises serious constitutional and public health concerns. Petitioners contend that Kenyans have a right to know the details of any agreement that could allow the admission of persons exposed to or infected with Ebola into the country.
The proposed facility, reportedly planned for Laikipia County, has sparked widespread public concern and protests in several parts of the country. Critics have questioned why Kenya should host a facility intended to handle foreign Ebola cases when the country has not reported any confirmed Ebola infections linked to the current regional outbreak. In its ruling, the court further prohibited the admission, transfer, receipt, or facilitation of entry into Kenya of persons exposed to or infected with Ebola under the contested arrangement until the matter is fully heard and determined.The government has defended the proposal as part of broader health preparedness efforts, arguing that the facility would strengthen Kenya's capacity to respond to infectious disease outbreaks. However, opponents insist that transparency and public participation must come first. The matter is expected to return to court later this month, with the ruling likely to shape future discussions on international health partnerships and Kenya's role in regional disease response efforts. For now, the proposed Ebola facility remains firmly on hold as the legal battle unfolds.