Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has defended Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Susan Nakhumicha from attacks on X, formerly known as Twitter.
In a statement, Passaris criticized activist and founder of Tribeless Youth, Shikoh Kihika, who slammed the CS for her comments on how hospitals handled victims of the anti-government demonstrations.
On July 3, Nakhumicha said that out of the total 294 persons injured during the demonstrations, 235 had been treated in various referral hospitals for various degrees of injuries and discharged, and none had been asked for payment.
She said 58 were still admitted, with one in the Intensive Care Unit and another three waiting for surgery.
“What the hell is she even saying? Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) had refused to treat people without cash until Hanifa Farsafi posted here, then they treated people and waived the charges. Aende atuambie vile typing error ya NHIF ilifanyika awache ushenzi (Let her explain how the NHIF typing error happened),” Shikoh said.
In retaliation, Passaris called out Shikoh, arguing that her language was uncalled for and that she should be ashamed.
The MP stated that there are millions of Kenyans who are proud of Nakhumicha’s work, which the activist had rubbished.
“Did you feel better about yourself after insulting our CS Nakhumicha? You might not appreciate the work that she does, but the millions of Kenyans who get served in our public facilities do,” Passaris said.
She asked Shikoh to spend time with the CS and understand her commitment to Universal Health Care (UHC).
“Why not spend a day with her to understand her role and her commitment to UHC? Our health CS is a very able and hardworking woman. I celebrate her,” she said.
However, Shikoh stated that Nakhumicha has shaky credentials to warrant her position as CS for health.
She further asked Passaris to stop blogging and focus on her job as an elected leader.
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Passaris Defends Govt
Passaris defended the government, stating that people hate everything about the government and all its employees but would be treated equally if they were to occupy those positions.
She explained that Kenya faces institutional challenges arising from poor leadership and low ethics among the citizens
“We can fix Kenya with objectivity and civility. Insults will not cut it. Incidentally, besides telling everyone off, what do you do to make a difference to your country? I really would like to know,” Passaris posed.
Also Read: Fresh Headache as Doctors Threaten to Occupy Nakhumicha’s Office
Foreign Jobs
Passaris also pledged to seek more clarification on the foreign jobs announced by the government.
She promised to look into the hidden costs of tickets, training, medical assessment and full disclosure on terms of employment.
“If we are going to export labour we need to educate potential candidates and eliminate potential to abuse our citizens. Strategic safeguards needed with key providers and partners. I get that,” she said.
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