EMMANUEL WEKESA
The recent controversy surrounding the Laikipia Ebola centre has ignited fears and accusations from political figures, with Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), alleging that the facility is part of a broader scheme by President William Ruto to target the Mount Kenya community. Gachagua's claims add a new dimension to the ongoing debate on regional health security and political motives amid the establishment of an Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base in Nanyuki.
Allegations Linking the Laikipia Ebola Centre to Political Motives
Gachagua questioned the decision to establish the Ebola centre in Kenya, citing concerns over the health implications and political motives. He claimed that the move was a strategic attempt by Ruto to wipe out the Mt Kenya community, specifically mentioning residents of Meru and Laikipia. The politician expressed suspicion over the collaboration between Kenya and the American government in setting up the facility, which, according to reports, has received significant funding from the US.
He emphasized that the Ebola virus, which is known to have no vaccine and a high fatality rate, poses a severe threat to the Kenyan population if it were to spread domestically. Gachagua criticized local elected officials for remaining silent on the matter, describing them as 'fake' and asserting that the people of Meru are left without political support in this crucial issue.
President Ruto defended the decision to allow the US to build the Ebola facility during a state visit to South Africa, arguing that rejecting the US-funded initiative would be inhumane and irresponsible. The US government has committed approximately Ksh.1.7 billion to enhance Ebola preparedness efforts in Kenya, a move Ruto described as a demonstration of regional cooperation to manage health threats.
