Kenya Union of Clinical Officers Threatens Impeachment Over UHC Implementation

The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers threatens to impeach senior health officials for obstructing the Universal Health Coverage rollout. Allegations of corruption and discrimination against clinical officers have fueled this decision. The union has initiated a censure motion and demands accountability from relevant authorities, emphasizing the right to health for all Kenyans.

The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) has expressed intentions to pursue impeachment proceedings against senior officials of the Ministry of Health and the Social Health Authority (SHA). This action is in response to claims that these officials are hindering the complete implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), resulting in widespread suffering among Kenyans. The union accuses entrenched cartels within these organizations of prioritizing personal financial interests over public health.

KUCO National Chairman, Patterson Wachira, announced that the union has filed a censure motion against SHA’s Chairman, Dr. Abdi Mohamed, and Acting CEO Robert Ingasira for incompetence, supported by 1,000 collected signatures. The union plans to extend similar actions towards senior officials in the Ministry of Health, including the Cabinet Secretary, if immediate improvements are not observed. Wachira implores Parliament members to support the censure as it affects Kenyans’ right to health guaranteed by the Constitution of Kenya.

Additionally, the union’s statement comes amid ongoing strikes by clinical officers, advocating for the enforcement of a previously negotiated return-to-work formula and the inclusion of clinical officers in SHA. CAusations are directed towards high-ranking health officials, including Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa, who are warned to address the health sector’s issues effectively or face impeachment.

Wachira outlined key grounds for the potential impeachment, including allegations of discrimination against clinical officers, obstruction of health access for Kenyans, and violations of leadership responsibilities outlined in the Constitution. He emphasized the obligation of citizens to demand accountability from officials who fail to uphold their duties.

Wachira further criticized the influence of cartels within SHA, asserting that their operations have obstructed SHA’s capacity to surpass the defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund. He indicated that the current leadership shows a bias towards medical officers, disadvantaging other health professional categories. The annual conference also hosted notable figures such as Moses Konde Matole, Mr. George Ohito, and Mr. Geoffrey Anaya, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

In summary, the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers is poised to initiate impeachment proceedings against leading health officials due to allegations of negligence impacting the Universal Health Coverage rollout. With firm assertions of corruption and discrimination within the health sector, the union demands accountability. The outcome of these actions remains to be seen, but they underscore the critical need for effective governance in healthcare. Ultimately, the call to action from KUCO emphasizes the collective responsibility of citizens and their representatives in ensuring that health officials operate in alignment with constitutional mandates.

Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke