US operations in Kenya defy Ebola ruling

Around 20 flights carrying medical equipment and specialist staff have arrived in Kenya, amid controversy over Washington’s plan to establish a US quarantine base for Ebola exposure, reports Business Insider Africa. At least six military aircraft landed after a Kenyan court halted the US quarantine plan, showing continued US operations despite legal challenges. The US intended to build a 50-bed quarantine centre staffed by US Public Health Service personnel, aiming to isolate Americans exposed to Ebola in DRC or Uganda. Public outcry in Kenya was triggered by concerns about transparency and public health risks. The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union accused authorities of conducting ‘backdoor negotiations’ and demanded the release of any agreements linked to the project. The group asserted that Kenya should not be forced to accept a risk deemed too significant for management within the US. According to a US official who wished to remain anonymous, these aircraft brought in technological equipment, scores of doctors, engineers, lab specialists, and construction workers, but no patients. Speaking to Reuters, he also mentioned that Kenyan President William Ruto possibly did not see the level of pushback the quarantine would eventually receive. Washington maintained that Kenya's geographical position made it the best option for monitoring potentially exposed Americans near the outbreak zone without returning them to the US. However, such an answer did not satisfy the critics. The Katiba Institute, the rights organisation that initiated the action, stated that the arrangement created major public health concerns and lacked basic openness. This led to protests in the East African country, which in turn led to some fatalities.

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