Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has vowed to stay the course in delivering Universal Health Coverage (UHC), despite growing political pressure for him to step down over alleged fraud at the Social Health Authority (SHA).
In a cryptic message posted on X (formerly Twitter), Duale dismissed his critics and reaffirmed his commitment to reforming Kenya’s health sector.
“Dirty water does not stop a plant from growing. So don’t let negative words stop your progress,” he wrote.
The SHA, which replaced the controversial National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), is a cornerstone of the government's push for universal health access.
However, it has recently come under fire amid claims of payments to ghost health facilities, fictitious claims, and systemic corruption—prompting public outrage and renewed scrutiny.
Speaking on Sunday at St. Peter’s ACK Cathedral in Siaya, President William Ruto defended SHA, attributing the spike in flagged irregularities to the success of the new digital health system, rather than the emergence of fresh corruption.
“The system we have introduced is exposing issues that have been ongoing for years. People think there is new corruption—no, the difference is that the new system can detect it,” Ruto said.
The President emphasised that those implicated in fraudulent activities within the SHA will be held accountable—facing prosecution and being compelled to refund all stolen funds.
“We will not shield anyone. If you stole, you must return what belongs to the people,” he added.
Despite the President’s backing, a political storm is brewing in Parliament.
Lawmakers allied to the Kenya Moja coalition have issued an ultimatum to Duale: resign or face impeachment.
“We have the signatures ready. When Parliament resumes, a motion will be tabled. Duale must take political responsibility for the theft of taxpayers’ money at SHA,” said Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
Critics argue that the health sector is on the brink of collapse under Duale’s leadership.
In the face of mounting criticism, Duale remains unmoved.
“The Ministry is fully focused on delivering Universal Health Coverage. We will not be distracted,” he reiterated in internal communications shared with key stakeholders last week.
