High Court Judge Mwamuye was compelled to adjourn the hearing of a case contesting the lease of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to the Adani Group due to significant disruptions during the virtual session.
As the proceedings unfolded, a large number of individuals flooded the online meeting, vocally demanding, “Adani Must Go,” creating a chaotic atmosphere that made it impossible to continue the hearing.
The adjournment came after multiple attempts to restore order, but the uproar from the crowd persisted, prompting Judge Mwamuye to reschedule the session to October 22, 2024.
This case has garnered substantial public interest, reflecting widespread concerns about the Adani Group’s involvement in managing such a critical national asset.
The opposition to the lease stems from fears about the implications of the deal for national security, economic sovereignty, and potential mismanagement of airport operations.
Activists and concerned citizens have been vocal about the need for transparency and accountability in the process, calling into question the criteria under which the Adani Group was awarded the lease.
The court had been set to hear arguments from both sides, including the government’s justification for the lease agreement and the opposition’s claims of impropriety and lack of due diligence.
In the lead-up to the adjournment, several public interest groups had mobilized supporters to participate in the virtual session, signaling the strong sentiments surrounding this high-profile case.
As the new date approaches, both sides are expected to prepare their arguments thoroughly, with the opposition continuing to rally public support against the lease.
The outcome of this hearing could have significant ramifications for the management of JKIA and future dealings involving foreign investment in critical national infrastructure.
