Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has voiced strong opposition to the Kenyan government’s rapid transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the newly proposed Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).
In an interview with NTV, Gachagua criticized the administration for what he described as a hasty move to implement an expensive system rather than focusing on enhancing the existing NHIF.
“I was against the fast implementation of SHA. Based on my own mathematics, I believed that the cost was too high and improving the current system was a better option,” he stated, underscoring his skepticism about the necessity of the transition.
Gachagua estimates that upgrading the NHIF could cost between KSh 700-800 million—significantly less than the KSh 104 billion required for the SHIF rollout.
He hinted at underhanded motives behind the government’s decision, suggesting that the initiative may benefit individuals within the administration, albeit without providing specific evidence.
“The KSh 104 billion is the focus; that is the crux of the matter,” he remarked, illustrating his belief that the project raises serious questions about transparency and accountability.
The former Deputy President claimed that his stance on the SHIF led to his impeachment by President William Ruto, whom he accused of pushing an agenda that he views as detrimental to the public.
In a pointed remark, he stated, “I can’t defend that SHA thing. I can’t defend Adani. From my perspective, they are theft of public funds.”
Meanwhile, the government continues to encourage Kenyans to register for the new health care program, which it touts as an improvement over the previous NHIF system. Despite its benefit, the new system has seen set backs in registration and enrollment with a section of Kenyans reluctant to onboard the policy.
