Kenya Kwanza leaders have criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his remarks regarding the planned establishment of an Ebola quarantine facility in Kenya, accusing him of politicising a critical public health matter.
The leaders were responding to claims by Gachagua that the proposed quarantine facility was targeting residents of the Mt. Kenya region, remarks that have triggered debate among political leaders and members of the public.
Speaking during a fundraiser for several women’s groups in Barwesa, Baringo North, leaders led by Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot dismissed the allegations, insisting that the facility is part of broader preparedness measures aimed at protecting Kenyans from a potential Ebola outbreak.
Cheruiyot said the government, working alongside international partners including the United States, is focused on strengthening the country’s capacity to respond to any possible health emergency and should not be distracted by political rhetoric.
The leaders maintained that the quarantine facility is intended to enhance the country’s readiness in the event of a disease outbreak and is not designed to target any specific community or region.
Baringo Senator Vincent Chemitei urged Gachagua to refrain from what he termed as immature politics, saying it was irresponsible to politicise issues relating to disease outbreaks and public health preparedness.
“It is wrong to politicise every issue, including disease outbreaks and pandemic preparedness efforts. Public health matters should unite leaders rather than divide them,” Chemitei said.
The remarks come amid heightened Ebola preparedness efforts by the Ministry of Health following reported cases in neighbouring Uganda. The government has intensified surveillance, screening and public awareness campaigns while assuring Kenyans that no Ebola case has been confirmed in the country.
Health officials have repeatedly emphasized that preparedness measures, including quarantine facilities, are standard public health interventions aimed at preventing the spread of infectious diseases and protecting lives.
