A Kenyan court has declined to issue an immediate stop order against Aliko Dangote’s proposed $16 billion oil refinery project in Lamu County.
The Malindi High Court judge Jane Onyango instead ordered opposing parties to maintain the current status quo.
The legal challenge stems from a petition filed by 133 local residents from Chandavai.
The plaintiffs claim that state acquisition procedures bypass generational occupants, targeting absentee titleholders instead.
Petitioners argue the multi-billion-dollar development violates established public participation, environmental, and property rights.
Despite local protests outside the courthouse, the judicial decision clears the path for upcoming presidential groundbreaking ceremonies on Wednesday.
The facility is designed to process 700,000 barrels daily alongside a massive power plant.
This ambitious industrial undertaking relies heavily on regional strategic partnerships.
The Africa Finance Corporation is co-financing the massive venture to boost East African fuel security.
Lamu County remains a focal point for massive infrastructural expansions.
Local community groups continue pushing for transparent stakeholder engagement to protect indigenous land rights.
Substantive hearings for the land dispute are scheduled for October 14.
