Lawyer and politician Willis Otieno has publicly backed Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi following his confrontation with Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale over the ongoing Social Health Authority (SHA) crisis.
SHA Crisis Sparks Accountability Debate
The dispute arises from growing concerns over the management and implementation of Kenya’s new health insurance framework under SHA, criticized for inefficiencies, delayed services, and a lack of transparency. Kibagendi recently challenged Health CS Duale to clarify how funds are being managed and why many citizens continue to face difficulties accessing medical care despite government assurances.
Otieno Condemns Evading Responsibility
Responding to the exchange, Otieno accused the Cabinet Secretary of using political theatrics to avoid accountability. He emphasized that citizens deserve clear answers on the management of public resources and access to healthcare services. Otieno praised Kibagendi for confronting what he described as “a growing culture of impunity and arrogance” in government offices, encouraging other legislators to demand explanations on behalf of their constituents.
Calls for Transparent Health Reforms
Otieno highlighted that the SHA was intended to reform Kenya’s healthcare system and ensure affordable medical care for all. However, he noted that poor planning, inadequate communication, and allegations of mismanagement have undermined public trust. He urged the Ministry of Health to adopt a more transparent and collaborative approach, involving legislators, medical professionals, and civil society to address gaps in the insurance model.
Prioritizing Citizens Over Politics
The lawyer stressed that healthcare should never be politicized, as it affects millions of Kenyans who rely on government facilities. He reaffirmed that accountability and openness are crucial to restoring public confidence and that the confrontation between Kibagendi and Duale should serve as a wake-up call for government institutions to prioritize people’s needs over political posturing.
