Kirinyaga Women representative Maina Njeri has raised concern over leadership discussions that she says could put citizens at risk of exposure to a highly dangerous airborne disease, warning that public health decisions must prioritise safety over political or diplomatic considerations.

In a statement shared on her X account on Friday, May 29, 2026, Njeri criticised what she termed as “reckless considerations” in government circles, arguing that Kenya must not entertain any arrangement that could expose citizens to severe health risks.

“Our leadership must be so fundamentally morally depraved, to even entertain the thought of discussing entering into an arrangement that exposes sovereign citizens to an airborne disease that has on the high end a fatality rate of 90%,” she stated.

Her remarks come amid heightened public debate over Kenya’s preparedness for Ebola following reports suggesting that the country could host individuals exposed to the virus for monitoring and treatment.

The comments have further intensified scrutiny of Kenya’s public health systems and the government’s emergency response readiness in the face of cross-border health threats.

Njiru questions Ebola preparedness plans

Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru has also faulted the government’s Ebola preparedness strategy, questioning its readiness to handle potential exposure cases amid reports linked to United States quarantine considerations.

Njiru argued that Kenya’s experience during the COVID-19 pandemic should serve as a cautionary lesson against exposing the country to additional health risks without sufficient capacity.

“Importing Ebola exposure to impress Washington DC is not diplomacy. It is gambling with Kenyan lives,” Njiru stated.

His concerns come as the government continues to assure the public that enhanced screening, surveillance and isolation measures have been put in place across key entry points.

Government defends preparedness measures

President William Ruto has since convened high-level meetings with international partners, including diplomats and health agencies, to review Kenya’s readiness and coordination strategies.

Authorities say more than 58,000 travellers have already been screened at various entry points, with all suspected cases testing negative.

The government maintains that Kenya’s preparedness framework is designed to safeguard national and regional health security, even as experts and professional bodies continue to call for transparency and stronger safeguards.

The ongoing debate highlights growing tension between public confidence, diplomatic considerations and health security in managing emerging disease threats.