NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Hundreds of workers at Kenya’s main international airport protested Wednesday against a planned deal between the government and a foreign investor. Planes remain grounded, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded at the airport.
The government has stated that the construction and operation agreement with India’s Adani Group involves renovating Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and building an additional runway and terminal. In return, the group will be allowed to operate the airport for 30 years.
The Kenya Airport Workers Union announced the strike, saying the deal would lead to job losses and “worse working conditions” for those who stay.
Kenya Airways announced on Wednesday that there will be delays and possible cancellations due to the ongoing strike at Nairobi airport.
Last week, airport workers threatened to strike, but the plans were called off pending consultation with the government.
Local media reported last week that unidentified people were seen walking around while airport officials took notes and photographs, raising fears that the Indian company’s officials were preparing for the deal.
The High Court on Monday temporarily suspended the implementation of the deal until the case filed by the Law Society and the Kenya Human Rights Commission is heard.