What began as a public demonstration over a proposed health facility in Nanyuki ended in tragedy after at least two people were reported dead during protests held on Monday, June 1.
The protests were sparked by plans to establish a U.S.-funded Ebola quarantine and isolation facility at Laikipia Air Base, a project that has attracted growing opposition from sections of the local community.
Residents who took part in the demonstrations said they were concerned about the possible health implications of the facility and questioned the decision to locate it in the area.
On Tuesday, protest organiser Patrick Wahome and a security source confirmed that two people had lost their lives during the unrest.
The exact circumstances surrounding the deaths had not been made public by the time of publication, and the National Police Service had not issued an official statement on the matter.
Hundreds of residents joined the demonstrations, carrying placards and leaves while chanting slogans calling for the cancellation of the project. Organisers insisted that all plans related to the facility should be abandoned by June 9, arguing that the concerns raised by the community had not been adequately addressed.
Tensions rose when some protesters attempted to move closer to Laikipia Air Base but were prevented from doing so by military personnel guarding the facility.
The standoff reportedly lasted for nearly two hours before a senior official from the base addressed the crowd and appealed for calm.
Despite the intervention, protests continued in different parts of Nanyuki town throughout the day. Videos shared online showed burning barricades on roads and thick smoke rising from several locations as security officers worked to contain the situation.
Residents from the Likii area later reported increased police patrols, with officers clearing major roads and escorting people back to their homes as evening approached.
The demonstrations came as legal and political disputes surrounding the project continue. On Tuesday, the High Court extended conservatory orders suspending the establishment of the facility while it hears a petition filed by Katiba Institute.
Even as opposition grows, President William Ruto has defended the initiative, saying it would improve Kenya’s ability to respond to potential Ebola outbreaks and strengthen health cooperation with the United States.
However, the project remains a subject of intense public debate, with questions being raised about community safety, public health, and national sovereignty.
