Kenya’s high court halts Adani’s takeover of Jomo Kenyatta International airport
- In Reports
- 01:18 PM, Sep 10, 2024
- Myind Staff
Gautam Adani’s plan to manage Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has encountered a significant setback after Kenya’s High Court temporarily halted the move. The proposed takeover, which involved a 30-year lease for the airport, has faced strong opposition and sparked protests from aviation unions.
According to a report by Financial Times, the High Court’s order blocked the transfer of management rights to Adani Group, which has been focusing on expanding its international operations. The court’s decision affects the lease agreement for East Africa’s largest aviation hub.
The controversy surrounding the takeover began in July, prompting protests from various quarters. The Kenya Aviation Workers Union voiced strong objections, citing concerns over potential job cuts and the introduction of foreign workers. The union argued that the deal with Adani Airport Holdings would lead to significant job losses and undermine employment opportunities for Kenyans.
Last month, the Kenya Aviation Workers Union announced a strike in response to the proposed deal. In a seven-day strike notice, the union demanded that the government cancel what it described as the “unlawful intended sale” of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Adani Airport Holdings. The union’s statement underscored their opposition to the agreement, highlighting fears of job displacement and the impact on local employment.
In response, Kenya's government has clarified that the airport is not for sale. Officials stated that no final decision has been made regarding the proposed public-private partnership aimed at upgrading the airport. The government emphasised that the ongoing discussions and proposals are part of efforts to improve the airport’s infrastructure, but no agreement has been finalized.
The temporary halt by the High Court has thus far prevented further progress on the lease agreement, leaving the future of Adani’s involvement in the management of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport uncertain.
Image source: Reuters
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