(1Photo credits: Standard news paper)
KELIN appeared before the High Court on 18 June 2026 for the hearing of an application arising from the ongoing petition concerning the proposed Ebola preparedness facilities in Kenya.
The application, filed by Katiba Institute, alleges non-compliance with previous court orders issued in the matter. During the hearing, KELIN, the Law Society of Kenya and the County Government of Laikipia supported the application and made submissions before the Court.
The application asks the Court to consider whether the Respondents complied with earlier orders relating to the continued development of the proposed facilities and the disclosure of information concerning the arrangements between the Government of Kenya and the United States Government relating to the facilities.
In its submissions, KELIN emphasised that court orders must be obeyed by all parties and that respect for court orders is essential to the rule of law and the administration of justice. KELIN submitted that compliance with court orders is necessary to maintain public confidence in the judicial process and ensure that disputes are resolved within the framework established by the Court.
The Attorney-General’s office opposed the application and urged the Court to dismiss it. State Counsel argued that the allegations relied heavily on media reports and further submitted that the existing court orders did not prevent the Government from undertaking general Ebola preparedness activities. Counsel also disputed the allegation that the Respondents had failed to comply with the Court’s directions. Following the hearing, the Court reserved its ruling on the application for 22 June 2026. The main petition is scheduled for hearing on 23 June 2026.
The petition continues to raise important questions relating to public health preparedness, transparency, access to information, accountability and the safeguards that should accompany measures intended to respond to highly infectious diseases.
KELIN will continue to participate in the proceedings and contribute its expertise on health rights, public health governance and accountability within health systems.
For further information, please contact:
Mitchelle Omuom
Advocate, KELIN
