The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader claimed the facility planned at the Laikipia Air Base in Nanyuki was part of a wider scheme to endanger residents from the Mt Kenya region.
His remarks sparked heated reactions online, with many Kenyans questioning the basis of his claims.
Gachagua made the comments after holding a consultative meeting with DCP aspirants from Meru County. During the meeting, he urged residents to reject the proposed facility, saying it posed a serious danger to communities living around Mt Kenya.
He accused President William Ruto’s administration of putting local lives at risk by supporting the project.
According to Gachagua, the quarantine centre, reportedly linked to a partnership between Kenya and the United States, raised major concerns for residents in Meru and Laikipia counties.
The former deputy president also expressed fears about the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. He argued that the virus is dangerous due to its high fatality rate and lack of an approved vaccine.
Gachagua further criticised elected leaders from the Mt Kenya region, accusing them of remaining silent over what he described as a serious threat to their people.
However, his remarks quickly triggered widespread debate online. Many Kenyans questioned how a disease such as Ebola could target people based on ethnicity.
Several social media users mocked the claims, arguing that viruses do not discriminate according to tribe or region.
Others pointed out that Laikipia is home to many communities and cannot be described as an area occupied solely by Mt Kenya residents.
Still, a small group of commentators said the government should openly address public concerns about the location and purpose of the proposed facility.
The debate has also raised questions about Gachagua’s political approach as he continues to position himself as a leading opposition voice following his impeachment in 2024.
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