The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) has warned pharmacists against recording patients inside a pharmacy outlet after a video of Rigathi Gachagua buying Medicine at a Pharmacy circulated online.
In a statement dated February 25, PSK President Wairimu Mbogo stated that recording any client within a pharmacy setting without consent violates fundamental ethical and professional standards.
“The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK), the professional body representing Pharmacists in Kenya, has taken note of circulating footage showing a high-profile public figure being recorded while purchasing and taking medicine at a pharmacy outlet,” read part of the statement.
“PSK wishes to state clearly and unequivocally that recording any client within a pharmacy setting without consent constitutes a serious breach of privacy and healthcare confidentiality,” said Wairimu Mbogo.
PSK Condemns Recording of Patients at Pharmacy Outlet
PSK has condemned a viral video showing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua purchasing medications at a pharmacy, arguing that it contravenes fundamental healthcare ethics.
It argued that the incident reflected the ethical gap in the country’s healthcare system, noting that legal action should be taken against healthcare providers who violate ethical principles.
“This incident underscores the critical importance of ensuring that pharmacy outlets operate under the supervision of qualified and licensed professionals who understand and uphold ethical standards.”
Also Read: Gachagua Issues Urgent Demands to Police IG Douglas Kanja
The body also defended the professionalism and training of pharmacists, explaining the standards they are expected to uphold in their practice.
“Pharmacists undergo advanced university training in pharmacology, therapeutics, clinical decision-making, and patient safety. Upon qualification, pharmacists take a professional oath committing to place patient welfare first, uphold confidentiality, promote the safe and rational use of medicines, and practice with integrity and accountability at all times,” the statement noted.
Additionally, PSK stated that it is conducting due diligence to verify the outlets’ and the professionals’ licensing status, and that appropriate regulatory action will be taken if any professional misconduct is confirmed.
Government to Tighten Pharmaceutical Oversight Amid Staffing Gaps
On November 26, 2025, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale directed the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) to intensify regulatory enforcement.
Duale directed the board to act immediately, insisting that the market must be cleared of unsafe and illegal pharmaceuticals.
Also Read: Duale Moves to Stop Foreign Doctors from Flooding Kenya
He also warned that regulatory officials who fail to carry out their duties will face consequences, arguing that any compromise or negligence by PPB inspectors will invite administrative, disciplinary, or legal action.
Duale added that the government plans to address staffing shortages affecting regulatory work.
“To address staffing gaps, he announced the approval to hire 45 additional officers under the World Bank-supported Health Emergency Preparedness, Response and Resilience Project, with further recruitment under discussion with the National Treasury,” the ministry confirmed.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
