A court in Kenya has found Health Minister Aden Duale in contempt of court for failing to halt the construction of a US-backed Ebola isolation facility despite a court order suspending the project.
The facility, being built at the Laikipia Air Base, has sparked controversy across Kenya. Critics argue that the project was launched without sufficient public consultation and have raised concerns about its potential impact on public health and national sovereignty.
The case was brought by legal and civil society groups, which accused the government of continuing construction work in violation of a court directive. The court also ordered authorities to provide details of agreements related to the project.
Supporters of the facility, including government officials, say it is part of efforts to strengthen preparedness against possible Ebola outbreaks in the region and improve the country's emergency health response capabilities.
The issue has triggered public debate and protests in some parts of Kenya, reflecting broader concerns about transparency and public involvement in major government projects.
The court is expected to determine what penalties, if any, will be imposed on the minister, while legal proceedings concerning the future of the Ebola facility continue.