By Bonface Mulyungi

Thirty-one protesters arrested during Monday’s anti-Ebola demonstrations in Nanyuki have been released on cash bail of Ksh.10,000 each, after being charged with unlawful obstruction of motor vehicles.

The protesters were released from Nanyuki GK prison after their bail was settled by the human rights defenders, with court documents stating that they allegedly barricaded public roads using stones, logs and burning tyres, causing disruption to traffic flow and posing danger to other road users.

Seventeen of the accused pleaded guilty and were fined Ksh.10,000 each or face one month in prison in default, while fourteen pleaded not guilty and were released on cash bail of Ksh.20,000 or an alternative bond of Ksh.50,000 with one surety.

The demonstrations were part of growing public protests over the Ebola quarantine facility in Nanyuki, with the protesters saying the demonstrations are far from over and calling on supporters to return to the streets on Tuesday.

The protests, which began peacefully, saw residents march to the Laikipia Air Base before returning to Nanyuki town, where they clashed with police officers. 

Following the melee, Laikipia Deputy Governor Reuben Kamuri called for broader stakeholder engagement before any decision is made.

“Anything to do with an isolation or quarantine facility in Laikipia Air Base or within the Nanyuki area, people have said they do not want it. If there are issues that require engagement, then all stakeholders must be involved,” he stated.