A recent decision by the East African Court of Justice (EACJ) has rejected a petition attempting to halt the construction of a controversial $4 billion crude oil pipeline from Uganda to Tanzania.
The court ruled that the case was filed too late, making it time-barred and beyond its jurisdiction.
The East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), spanning 1,443 kilometers and involving collaboration between the governments of Uganda and Tanzania, TotalEnergies, and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), has encountered resistance from local communities as well as human rights and environmental organizations.
Critics argue that the project is causing displacement of communities, disturbing graves along its route, and contributing to environmental damage.
Despite these concerns, the court’s decision has raised questions about the global response to environmental issues related to major infrastructure projects.
Civil society group Natural Justice expressed disappointment, stating, “This judgment marks a continuation of how the global north and various government institutions in Africa are blind to the destruction of the environment and the impact oil and gas has on the climate.”
Despite the setback, Natural Justice and three other civil society organizations plan to appeal the court’s decision, maintaining their stance against the perceived environmental and social consequences of the East Africa pipeline.
Court Dismisses Legal Challenge Against East Africa Pipeline Construction, Court Dismisses Legal Challenge Against East Africa Pipeline Construction
