Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has strongly criticised Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale over his remarks suggesting that the government is not required to consult Kenyans on the proposed construction of an Ebola quarantine and isolation facility in the country.
Matiang’i took issue with the position, arguing that public participation is a core requirement in a democratic system and cannot be dismissed, particularly on matters that directly touch on public health and national safety.
He maintained that citizens have both the right to question government decisions and to receive clear explanations from public officials.
Matiang’i criticises Duale stance on public consultation in Ebola facility row. Photo: Courtesy.
He further stated that leadership in public office comes with an obligation to engage with citizens in a meaningful way, noting that even difficult or uncomfortable questions raised by members of the public must be addressed rather than ignored.
According to him, such engagement strengthens accountability and public trust in government projects.
The former CS also weighed in on the broader debate surrounding the proposed facility, aligning himself with leaders who have raised concerns about its establishment in Kenya.
He questioned the logic behind constructing a quarantine and isolation unit locally for a disease that is primarily prevalent in other regions, suggesting that such facilities should be located where the outbreak is most active.
Matiang’i’s remarks come in response to Duale’s earlier statement in Parliament, where the Health CS defended the project and argued that extensive consultations could slow down the country’s preparedness for potential Ebola outbreaks.
Duale maintained that swift action was necessary to ensure Kenya remains ready to respond to health emergencies.
The issue has since escalated into a legal matter after the High Court issued conservatory orders temporarily halting the implementation of the project in Laikipia County, pending further determination of the case.
