Indian firm Adani Group has flagged fake press releases circulating regarding its operations, particularly in Kenya.
In a statement on Monday, September 16, the Group, owned by Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, stated that the press statements have ill intentions, specifically pointing out one regarding the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Adani clarified that it has not released any press statement related to its operations in Kenya.
“Certain vested interests with malicious intent are circulating multiple fraudulent press releases, including one titled ‘Adani Group Denounces Baseless Accusations and Threats,’ related to our presence in Kenya,” the statement read in part.
“We categorically state that neither the Adani Group nor any of its companies or subsidiaries have issued any press releases related to Kenya.”
Adani condemned the acts as deceitful and urged everyone to disregard them completely.
The company stated that all its official press releases are available on its website and encouraged the media and influencers to verify facts and sources before publishing or broadcasting any articles or news about the Adani Group.
“We will take legal action against anyone involved in spreading false narratives,” read another part of the statement.
Senators on Adani JKIA Takeover
Meanwhile, senators have urged the government to stop the proposed handover of JKIA to the Indian company.
While appearing before the Senate, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said there is no concession deal between the government and Adani Group. Chirchir explained that the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has not yet signed an agreement with the firm regarding the airport takeover deal.
He also disclosed that the Adani Group had shown interest in upgrading the airport through a privately initiated proposal, which is permitted under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Act of 2021.
“No legally binding agreement has been finalized; it is just a draft document. The discussions have only led to the development of a non-binding Head of Terms, which has not been signed. The Head of Terms outlines the key terms of the commercial transaction that have been mutually agreed upon in principle,” the CS said.
Also Read: CS Chirchir Explains Why AG Oduor’s Office Should be Fully Involved in JKIA-Adani Deal
Transport CS Defends Government
CS Chirchir stated that ongoing discussions with Adani would offer insights that will shape the final concession agreement to be signed by both parties.
He clarified that the agreement must receive approval from several entities, including the KAA board, the PPP committee, the National Treasury, a legal review by the Attorney General, and a joint memorandum between the Ministry of Roads and Transport, the Attorney General, and the Treasury before being presented to the Cabinet for final approval.
Also Read: Adani Listed Among World’s Best Companies Amid Controversy Over Frozen Ksh40 Billion
On September 9, the High Court issued an order prohibiting any person from implementing or acting on the privately initiated Adani proposal over JKIA, pending the conclusion of the court case.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) moved to court to block the controversial takeover of JKIA by India’s Adani Enterprises. Adani Enterprises Limited submitted a proposal on March 1, 2024, to take over the running and management of JKIA.
In June, the government approved the relevant aviation policies, giving Adani a go-ahead on the planned expansion of JKIA.
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