Caleb Amisi condemns use of force against Nanyuki protesters
By Mabonga Makhanu, June 1, 2026Saboti MP Caleb Amisi has condemned what he described as the excessive use of force by police officers against protesters demonstrating in Nanyuki over the proposed establishment of an Ebola quarantine facility.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms on Monday, the outspoken legislator criticised the handling of the demonstrators, arguing that Kenyans have a constitutional right to express their concerns and seek information on matters that directly affect their communities.
“I strongly condemn the use of excessive force by police against peaceful protesters in Nanyuki who were voicing their concerns over the proposed Ebola quarantine facility,” Amisi said.
The MP noted that while public health issues are important and should be taken seriously, citizens should not be intimidated or subjected to force for raising questions about government decisions.
“While public health matters are important, citizens have a constitutional right to seek information, express their fears, and participate in decisions that may affect their communities,” he added.
Amisi further called on the government to embrace transparency and engage members of the public through dialogue instead of resorting to forceful measures.
According to the lawmaker, open communication and public participation are critical in addressing concerns surrounding the proposed facility and preventing the spread of misinformation.
“The government should address these concerns through transparency, public engagement, and dialogue rather than force,” he stated.
Nanyuki protestors
The opposition has grown amid political debate, a court case, and rising tensions in Laikipia County.
Speaking during local mobilisation on Monday, June 1, 2026, one resident, Martin Ndegwa, said the community would not accept the project under any circumstances.
“And we are here to categorically say hell no to an Ebola quarantine facility in Nanyuki. It is right at our doorstep. It is right in town,” he said.
He questioned the logic of hosting such a facility in Kenya while the disease is mainly reported elsewhere.
The protests
The protests intensified throughout the better part of Monday, with demonstrators attempting to access the Nanyuki Military Air Base, where they were stopped by members of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) stationed at the facility. One of the commanders was seen engaging the protesters and urging them to remain calm while preventing them from entering the base.
Meanwhile, leaders from the opposition have planned a trip to the area later this week to stand in solidarity with local residents as they continue opposing the proposed establishment of the quarantine facility.