High Court Halts Privileges Granted to Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

 In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

• The High Court has suspended the special privileges and immunities granted to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation after a challenge by the Law Society of Kenya.

• The LSK argues the government’s decision, announced in an October Gazette Notice, is unlawful and seeks to have it nullified.

The High Court has temporarily suspended the special privileges and immunities granted to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation following a petition by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). 

Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued orders prohibiting the foundation from enjoying the perks pending the hearing and determination of the case.

The LSK has challenged the government’s decision to grant the foundation immunity, arguing that the move is unlawful and should be declared null and void. 

The legal body contends that such privileges may undermine accountability and transparency in the foundation’s operations within the country.

The privileges were officially announced in a Gazette Notice dated October 4, 2024, which declared the foundation eligible for certain immunities under Kenyan law.

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The notice acknowledged the foundation’s role in addressing global issues such as poverty, disease, and inequality across over 140 countries, and its cooperative agreement with the Kenyan government.

The case raises questions about the balance between fostering partnerships with international organizations and safeguarding the rule of law and public accountability.