Tension in Nanyuki as Police Fire Tear Gas at Ebola Demonstrators

Police fired tear gas to disperse protesters on Monday, June 1, in Nanyuki town, demonstrating against the proposed establishment of an Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base.

The confrontation erupted after hundreds of residents took to the streets, marching through major roads while chanting slogans and carrying placards opposing the planned project.

They expressed concerns over potential health risks and called for the facility to be relocated elsewhere, insisting that the area was unsuitable for such a centre.

However, tension escalated when the protesters attempted to push through police barricades in the town centre after being blocked from accessing the military installation.

Police Tear Gas Nanyuki Residents During Protests Over Ebola Quarantine Facility

At the Laikipia Air Base, protesters were met by a security blockade mounted by military officers and other security personnel, who barred them from advancing further towards the facility.

The move triggered a tense standoff between the protesters and security officers, with the crowd demanding to be allowed through to deliver their message directly to those in charge of the installation.

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Anti-riot officers responded by firing tear gas canisters to disperse the crowds, with warning shots being fired into the air.

Meanwhile, the clashes sparked panic among residents and traders, forcing businesses to close as people fled in different directions to avoid the effects of tear gas and possible robbery.

Regarding the opposition to the quarantine, Former Laikipia Woman Representative Sarah Korere warned that hosting an Ebola-related facility in Nanyuki could negatively affect tourism and public confidence in the region.

MP Condemns Police Over Use of Power in Ebola Protests

Elsewhere, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi Luyai has strongly condemned the use of excessive force by police against peaceful protesters in Nanyuki.

Also Read: Nanyuki Residents Plan Protest Against Ebola Quarantine Facility Ahead of Madaraka Day

He noted that, although public health matters remain important, citizens are constitutionally entitled to seek information, voice their fears, and participate in decisions that affect their communities.

“I strongly condemn the use of excessive force by police against peaceful protesters in Nanyuki who were voicing their concerns over the proposed Ebola quarantine facility,” stated Caleb.

Additionally, Caleb Amisi argued that such concerns should not be met with force, but rather addressed through transparency, public engagement, and dialogue.

The legislator called on the government to prioritize open communication in handling sensitive public health projects in order to build trust and prevent unrest.

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