Protests against the Adani Group’s planned involvement in Kenya’s Nairobi airport have raised concerns that public anger in Kenya could turn against India. On Tuesday, the Indian Congress party expressed worry over the situation, warning that the growing protests could damage India’s reputation in the African nation.
Adani Group Controversy Sparks Protests
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh pointed out that the workers’ union in Kenya has been opposing a deal for Adani Airport Holdings, led by Gautam Adani, to take over the development of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Ramesh emphasized that India’s connection with Adani, a known associate of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, might lead to negative feelings toward India if the protests escalate.
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The Kenyan workers’ union had initially planned a strike starting August 19 to protest the government’s proposed agreement with Adani. However, the strike was postponed to review the documents provided by the government. The union warned that the deal could lead to job losses for Kenyans, with employment opportunities potentially going to foreign workers. The union urged the government to cancel the agreement.
The Kenyan government clarified that the airport was not being sold and no final decision had been made on the renovation plan.
Ramesh also highlighted similar controversies involving the Adani Group in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. He mentioned that a deal involving Adani Power’s coal plant in Jharkhand and the sale of electricity to Bangladesh became a key issue in the protests that led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August. The contract was criticized for forcing Bangladesh to buy power at very high prices, which many saw as unfair.
In Sri Lanka, Adani’s renewable energy projects in Mannar also faced protests. In June 2022, a Sri Lankan official claimed that Prime Minister Modi had pressured the government to award the project to Adani, though this statement was later withdrawn, and the Sri Lankan government denied the allegations.
Historically, India’s soft power and diplomatic relationships have been a strength on the global stage. However, Congress argues that the government’s close association with the Adani Group could be damaging India’s international standing, especially when controversies arise in foreign countries.
With many Indians and people of Indian origin living in Kenya, the outcome of these protests and the broader perception of India will be closely watched in the coming weeks.
