A highly anticipated session of the Kilifi County Assembly meant to scrutinize the county’s health sector was adjourned on Wednesday after failing to meet the required quorum. The meeting, convened by the Assembly’s Committee on General Oversight, was expected to question County Health Executive Peter Mwarogo and other senior officials on the state of healthcare services in the region.
However, only 15 Members of County Assembly (MCAs) showed up for the session, falling well short of the required quorum. The no-show by 36 other MCAs forced Speaker Teddy Mwambire to adjourn the session, drawing sharp criticism from those who had attended.
Several MCAs expressed their frustration over the missed opportunity to hold the health department accountable. They noted that despite the health sector receiving a significant share of the county’s budgetary allocation, service delivery remained poor, with many residents still struggling to access essential healthcare.
“We have serious issues in our hospitals—staff shortages, lack of medicine, and dilapidated infrastructure—yet we cannot even conduct proper oversight because some members are not taking their duties seriously,” said one visibly frustrated MCA who requested anonymity.
The Committee on General Oversight had summoned the health officials to explain the use of funds allocated to the sector and address growing public concerns about mismanagement and inefficiencies in county health facilities.
Speaker Mwambire, who was to chair the session, expressed disappointment at the turn of events. “This was a critical sitting that touches directly on the well-being of our people. It is disheartening that members could not prioritize it,” he said.
The incident has raised broader questions about accountability and commitment among some elected leaders in Kilifi. Civil society groups and local residents have also voiced their dismay, calling for greater transparency and urging MCAs to prioritize the interests of their constituents.
The session is expected to be rescheduled, though no date has been announced yet. Residents and stakeholders hope that the next meeting will proceed with full attendance to ensure the health sector receives the scrutiny it urgently needs.
