Duale Apologizes in Court Over Laikipia Ebola Facility Controversy
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has formally apologized to the court over concerns that the Ministry of Health may have acted in contravention of conservatory orders issued in relation to the controversial Laikipia Airbase Ebola isolation facility project.
In a sworn statement presented before the court, Duale maintained that neither he nor the Ministry of Health had any intention of disregarding, undermining, or defying the authority of the judiciary. He explained that the ministry’s interpretation of the conservatory orders was that the court had suspended the implementation of the proposed collaboration between the Government of Kenya and the United States government regarding the Laikipia Airbase facility.
The Cabinet Secretary emphasized that any actions taken by the ministry were based on that understanding and not on any deliberate attempt to violate court directives.
To demonstrate compliance, Duale announced that he had directed the immediate and complete cessation of all intended construction works, site preparations, and any related activities connected to the Laikipia Airbase facility. The suspension will remain in force pending the hearing and determination of the substantive petition before the court or until further orders are issued.
“I have directed the immediate and complete cessation of any intended construction, site preparations, or related activities concerning the Laikipia Airbase facility pending the hearing and determination of the substantive petition or until further orders of this court,” Duale stated.
The Health CS further underscored his long history in public service and lawmaking, noting that he has served as a Member of Parliament for more than two decades and played a key role in the passage of numerous laws under Kenya’s constitutional framework.
Duale told the court that as a former Majority Leader and legislator who helped enact many of the laws currently enforced by the judiciary, he fully appreciates the importance of respecting court orders and constitutional institutions.
“I will be the last person to disregard a court order and the last person to violate any constitutional order given by any court,” he said.
The Cabinet Secretary also expressed regret for any misunderstanding, omission, misinterpretation, or action that may have created the perception that the ministry had failed to comply with the court’s directives.
Following the apology, the court acknowledged Duale’s statement and noted that he had clearly recognized and affirmed the authority of the judiciary.
The judge subsequently accepted the apology and declined to impose personal or official costs against the Cabinet Secretary. However, the court cautioned that similar incidents should not be repeated in the future.
The development marks a significant turn in the ongoing legal battle surrounding the proposed Laikipia Airbase Ebola isolation facility, which has generated intense public debate and political controversy in recent weeks.
The project has faced opposition from sections of leaders, activists, and residents who have questioned its purpose, implementation, and the involvement of foreign partners. The matter remains before the courts as stakeholders await a final determination on the legality and future of the proposed facility.
With all activities now officially suspended, attention shifts to the substantive hearing that will determine whether the project can proceed and under what conditions.
The court’s acceptance of Duale’s apology may temporarily ease tensions surrounding the matter, but the broader debate over public health preparedness, government transparency, and community concerns is expected to continue.
