Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has called on the government to provide Kenyans with clear and honest answers regarding the Ebola facility planned for Laikipia County.
According to Odhiambo, the Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale failed to assure the country that the government’s decision-making on the matter was fully within the law and under control during his appearance before Parliament.
“Kenyans are entitled to clear, honest answers. Who authorised these arrangements, on what legal basis and with what safeguards for public health and sovereignty?” she stated.
The former LSK President said the Constitution requires government actions to be lawful, respect court orders and uphold public participation, adding that the concerns raised by citizens should not be dismissed without adequate explanation.
She noted that a High Court had already issued conservatory orders suspending the Ebola-related facility and cautioned against any suggestion that the government could proceed regardless of the court’s directive.
According to Odhiambo, public confidence in both the Ministry of Health and Parliament’s oversight role could be undermined if critical questions surrounding the facility remain unanswered.
She further argued that the right to health under Article 43 of the Constitution must be considered alongside constitutional provisions on public participation, parliamentary oversight and the authority of the courts.
“You cannot promote public health by eroding the very legal framework that protects Kenyans from arbitrary executive action,” she added.
