Opposition leaders Malala and Methu reject proposed nuclear plant in Kilifi
While addressing a rally in Malindi on Sunday, June 8, 2025, the two leaders voiced concerns about the potential impact of the proposed project.
Opposition figures Cleophas Malala and Senator John Methu have voiced strong opposition to the planned construction of a nuclear power facility in Kilifi County.
While addressing a rally in Malindi on Sunday, June 8, 2025, the two leaders voiced concerns about the potential impact of the proposed project.
“I’ve been informed that they want to set up a nuclear plant here in Malindi, yet the local community has not been consulted,” Malala said.
"They claim that by engaging with your elected leaders, they’ve already secured your consent. People of Malindi, did you give them permission?" he posed to the crowd.
Senator John Methu echoed Malala’s sentiments, declaring the community’s rejection of the proposed plant.
"The people of Malindi have said no to this nuclear plant. If nuclear energy is such a great thing, then President William Ruto should set it up in his own backyard in Uasin Gishu," Methu said.
"If the government truly wants to help the people here, bring them education, clean water just like you did in Kapseret. You distributed motorcycles and equipment there; do the same for the youth of Malindi. But don’t impose a nuclear plant that everyone has already rejected."
The rally drew prominent opposition figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, both of whom voiced their rejection of the nuclear power plant project.
This event forms part of a broader opposition campaign targeting President Ruto’s government ahead of the 2027 elections.
The nuclear facility is planned for Uyombo village in Kilifi County, with the goal of producing 1,000 megawatts of power by 2034, a move intended to establish Kenya as a key player in nuclear energy.
Despite the government's ambitions, residents and environmental activists have raised serious concerns, warning that the project poses a risk to the region’s delicate ecosystems.
The nearby Watamu National Marine Park and Arabuko-Sokoke Forest vital to local tourism and the economy could be adversely affected by the development.
