Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has ignited controversy surrounding the alleged potential handover of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Kenya's primary airport, to Indian conglomerate Adani Group's subsidiary, Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL).

Onyonka petitioned the Senate Committee on Roads and Transport, demanding a thorough investigation into the alleged "private deal" for JKIA's operation under a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) model.

"It is reported that Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) entered an agreement with Adani Commercial, a private company, to 'build, operate and transfer' JKIA through a lease," stated Onyonka, raising concerns about the lack of transparency.

The Senator's petition delves into specific details, including the purported 30-year lease term and the ambiguity surrounding ownership transfer at the concession's conclusion.

"The assets developed through capital expenditure by the company will be transferred to KAA at the expiry…at a value…structured to grant the company an equity of 18 per cent," he highlighted the potential for Adani to retain a significant stake in the airport.

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Further fueling the controversy, Onyonka claims the deal grants Adani the authority to determine user fees at JKIA, potentially impacting airlines and passengers alike.

His demands extend beyond the JKIA deal.

He seeks clarification on the selection process and contract details surrounding ALG, the transaction advisor reportedly awarded a Sh160 million contract to develop Kenya's Air Transport Policy.

Onyonka's investigative spirit doesn't stop there.

He requests access to minutes and resolutions from a purported KAA board meeting held on July 15, 2024.

Additionally, he questions the reported government plan to provide Adani with free land for a "city side development," raising concerns about potential land disputes in the vicinity of JKIA.

While both KAA and AAHL have remained silent on the alleged deal, reports talk of a series of meetings between Adani representatives and high-ranking Kenyan government officials.

The Senate Committee on Roads and Transport now faces the task of providing clarity on this potentially significant development in Kenyan aviation.

Transparency and due diligence will be crucial in addressing Senator Onyonka's concerns and ensuring a smooth path forward for JKIA's future.