Ford Kenya National Youth Wing, led by their national president Musa Chekai, addresses the press at the party's headquarters at Riverside Drive, Westlands, on March 13, 2025/HANDOUT
Led by the national president, Musa Chekai, the youth said the challenges faced at the Health Ministry are historical and that the new Social Health Authority needs to be implemented with high-level consultation.
Addressing a press conference at party headquarters on Riverside Drive, Westlands, Nairobi, the youth said Barasa possesses the necessary experience and skills to steer the docket in the right direction.
“CS Mulongo is a victim of circumstances since she has just joined the ministry. The country should be made aware that the new policies are government initiates while CS Mulongo is the one in charge of implementing them,” said Chekai.
Chekai urged stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue rather than placing the blame solely on the CS.
“We are here in solidarity with the CS, and we acknowledge that the issues affecting the health sector require proper and deeper consultations with all stakeholders. It is unfair to blame everything on the CS,” Chekai said.
Chiveli William, the Ford Kenya youth leader from Bungoma, echoed Chekai’s sentiments, stating that the youth unanimously oppose the unwarranted attacks on the CS.
He asserted that she is being unfairly targeted for political reasons, which he deemed unhealthy for national progress.
“As Youths, we want to defend her because we know she has the capability to elevate the health sector. We cannot sit back and watch our daughter from the Mulembe Nation being harassed,” Chiveli stated.
Jenny Achieng, Ford Kenya deputy youth leader for Nairobi County, urged Barasa to remain steadfast and focused on her responsibilities despite the political distractions.
She highlighted that a similar pattern of attacks was witnessed during former CS Susan Nakhumicha’s tenure and should not be repeated.
“We will not allow the same kind of political warfare that was waged against former CS Susan Nakhumicha to be repeated. CS Mulongo should stay strong and focused on delivering her mandate,” Achieng said.
The youth leaders also expressed support for ODM leader Raila Odinga’s decision to collaborate with President William Ruto to advance national development.
Chiveli stated that Raila’s move aims to unite all Kenyan communities and should be embraced for the sake of national cohesion.
“We appreciate Raila’s decision to work with President Ruto to bring unity to the country. This unity should spread across all regions to foster development,” he added.
The press conference comes barely two days after Western MPs caucus also voiced their concern over the continuous attacks on the CS
