Kenya’s High Court has temporarily blocked Indian firm Adani’s $1.85 billion takeover of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
This decision has been hailed as a significant win for Kenyan critics of the deal.
Adani Group had proposed a 30-year lease for JKIA, prompting concerns about potential job losses and reduced future profits for taxpayers.
JKIA’s fees contribute over five percent to Kenya’s GDP.
The Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission challenged the deal, citing breaches in good governance and transparency principles.
The court has issued a delay, but no final decision date has been set.
The Kenyan government supports the deal, emphasizing the urgent need for airport refurbishments to address power outages and roof leaks.
Adani’s plans include adding a second runway and upgrading terminals, as reported by the Kenya Airport Authority.
Ochiel Dudley, representing the challengers, praised the delay as a victory for Kenyans who feel ignored.
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union had previously threatened a strike but has postponed it to allow for further negotiations.
