The High Court has certified as urgent a petition filed by the Consumer Federation of Kenya seeking to stop the proposed KSh154 billion upgrade of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The petition challenges the ongoing procurement process. It questions aspects of the tender and the value for money the project would deliver.
Justice issued directives after the matter was presented under certificate of urgency. All parties must file their responses by June 22. An inter partes hearing has been scheduled for June 23.
COFEK Secretary General Stephen Mutoro is leading the case. The consumer group argues that proper procedures may not have been followed in the project planning.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has defended the process. He stated that procurement is still ongoing and no contract has been awarded yet.
JKIA has faced years of criticism over leaking roofs, outdated facilities and capacity constraints. Successive governments have announced plans to modernise it.
This latest legal challenge adds to a series of court battles that have delayed major infrastructure projects in recent years.
The court’s decision to fast-track the matter shows it considers the issues raised as serious. The outcome of the June 23 hearing will determine whether the upgrade proceeds without further interruption.
Public reaction has been mixed. Some Kenyans want the airport upgraded urgently while others demand greater transparency and value for money in such large contracts.
The case will test how courts balance the need for development against demands for accountability in public procurement.
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