The Adani Group’s proposal to take over the management of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi has sparked significant controversy, both in Kenya and in India. Transport workers in Kenya have protested against the move, citing concerns about job security, and the Congress party in India has voiced its opposition, warning that the deal could lead to resentment against the Indian government.
Congress Raises Concerns Over India’s Global Image
Adani Enterprises has established a Kenyan subsidiary as part of its bid to manage Nairobi’s key international airport, according to reports from The East African. Congress spokesperson Jairam Ramesh criticized the proposal, describing it as a “matter of grave concern” for India. Ramesh argued that the protests in Kenya could easily escalate into anger against India, given Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s well-known association with the Adani Group.
The Adani Group’s proposed takeover of the airport in Nairobi, Kenya, has led to widespread protests in the country, with the Kenya Aviation Workers Union calling for a strike to demonstrate its opposition. This is a matter of grave concern for India, because the non-biological…
— Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) September 3, 2024
Ramesh further commented on the broader implications of the Prime Minister’s relationship with the Adani Group, suggesting that this close association has led to negative consequences for India on the global stage. He referred to the Prime Minister as a “non-biological PM” and claimed that this relationship has caused “unprecedented reversals” for India internationally.
Protests and Strikes in Kenya
The proposed takeover has already led to significant unrest in Kenya. Workers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport went on strike, organized by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union, to protest the potential management change. The union called for the government to cancel the “unlawful intended sale” of the airport to Adani Airport Holdings.
The Kenyan government has responded to the unrest by assuring workers that the airport is not for sale and that no final decision has been made regarding the public-private partnership aimed at upgrading the airport.
Comparisons to Other Adani Projects
Ramesh also drew comparisons to other controversial projects undertaken by the Adani Group in neighboring countries. He cited the recent protests in Bangladesh over the government’s contract to purchase power from Adani’s coal plant in Jharkhand. These protests were reportedly one of the factors leading to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation last month.
As the situation continues to develop, the Congress party remains critical of the potential repercussions for India’s diplomatic relationships and its global standing.
