By Bonface Mulyungi
A public dispute between Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua and Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has intensified, with both leaders trading accusations over alleged irregularities within the Social Health Authority (SHA).
Gachagua, speaking during a United Opposition tour in the Ukambani region, accused Duale of having vested interests in a company allegedly linked to a Ksh104 billion contract under SHA.
The former Deputy President claimed the Health CS holds a 17 per cent stake in a firm said to be part of a consortium involved in the system’s implementation.
He further alleged that billions of shillings had been lost through the programme, claiming widespread mismanagement and corruption within the health financing framework.
Duale has strongly denied the allegations, dismissing them as unfounded and politically motivated.
“I still wait for him to go to the Business Registration Bureau and get my wealth declaration. I am a man of integrity. I do not own any company that does business with the government,” Duale said.
The Cabinet Secretary challenged Gachagua to formally present evidence, including holding a press conference to substantiate the claims, maintaining that he can fully account for his financial dealings.
The exchange marks the second consecutive day of sharp differences between the two leaders over the SHA programme, which replaced the defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
Duale defended the authority’s performance, stating that Ksh27.5 billion has been paid out in claims over a 19-month period, representing 78 per cent of all processed claims. He added that reforms within SHA, including the use of automated systems and artificial intelligence, are aimed at improving efficiency and curbing fraud.
At the same time, the CS accused unnamed individuals linked to the former Deputy President of involvement in alleged irregularities under NHIF, warning that he would publicly disclose their identities.
“There are many cartels, including those associated with the former Deputy President, who were involved in the destruction of NHIF. I will name them,” Duale said, adding that the ministry remains focused on reforms in the health sector.
Gachagua also raised concerns over the e-Citizen platform, alleging that Ksh6.3 billion had been irregularly withdrawn, claims that have not been independently verified.
The former Deputy President was accompanied during the tour by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, Eugene Wamalwa and Justin Muturi. The leaders criticised President William Ruto’s administration, citing governance challenges that they said continue to affect key sectors, including agriculture.
