Passenger Stranding at Kenya’s Main Airport Amid Protest Strike

Passenger Stranding at Kenya’s Main Airport Amid Protest Strike

Hundreds of travelers were stranded at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, Kenya, on Wednesday morning as workers staged a strike to protest a proposed airport takeover by the Indian business group, Adani. The strike, known as a “go-slow,” resulted in significant delays and flight cancellations.

Government-Union Dispute over Airport Lease

The aviation workers’ union launched the strike in opposition to the government’s plan to lease JKIA to Adani for a 30-year period. The union argues that the deal is opaque and raises concerns about potential job losses. On the other hand, the government has defended the proposal, stating that the airport is operating beyond capacity and requires private investment for upgrades.

Chaotic Scene at JKIA

Witness accounts describe the atmosphere at JKIA as chaotic, with hundreds of passengers queuing outside the airport. Passengers expressed frustration due to the lack of information and uncertainty regarding their flights. The Zimbabwe men’s football team, who were waiting to depart after an African Cup of Nations qualifier match, were also affected by the disruption.

Strikes Spread to Other Airports

The strike has spread to other airports in Kenya, including those in Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret. The Kenya Aviation Workers’ Union has threatened to extend the strike indefinitely if the government fails to address their concerns.

Legal Challenges to Airport Lease

The Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission have filed a challenge in the High Court against the airport lease deal, arguing that it is unreasonable to lease a strategic national asset to a private company. The court has halted the deal to allow for a judicial review.

Adani Group Background and Controversy

The Adani Group, founded by billionaire Gautam Adani, operates in various sectors, including commodities trading, airports, and renewable energy. The group has faced controversy in the past, with accusations of corrupt practices and stock manipulation. Mr. Adani’s alleged close relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has further fueled concerns.

Ongoing Negotiations and Investigation

Kenya Airways head Allan Kilavuka reported that only a third of scheduled flights had departed on Wednesday morning. The Kenya Airports Authority is engaging with stakeholders to resolve the disruption, and negotiations between the government and the workers’ union are ongoing. The High Court will determine the outcome of the legal challenge, which could further delay or potentially overturn the airport lease deal.