Health CS Deborah Barasa has revoked the appointment of two Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital members.
CS Barasa revoked the appointment of Kavinya Mwendwa and Gladys Ogallo as members of KU Hospital.
In a gazette notice dated December 3, CS Barasa said the directive is effective from Tuesday, December 3, 2024.
“Of the powers conferred by section 6 (1) (e) of the State Corporations Act, as read together with Paragraph 6 (1) (k) of the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital Order, and section 51 (1) of the Interpretation and General Provisions Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Health, revokes the appointment of Kavinya Mwendwa and Gladys Ogallo, as members of the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, with effect from the December 3, 2024,” the gazette notice reads.
The revocations come as medics and support staff protests were witnessed on Monday paralyzing operations at KUTRRH.
The health workers were protesting working conditions at the Level 6 facility as they called for urgent intervention from the Ministry of Health.
Grievances raised include alleged sexual harassment, long working hours, and waiver of staff medical bills for those in critical care departments, among others.
The staff also cited the recent suspension of hospital Chief Executive Ahmed Dagane, who was sent on compulsory leave by the board. Hundreds of patients seeking services at the facility were left stranded as the industrial action took effect.
On Tuesday, KUTRRH Board Chairperson Olive Mugenda resigned and the Board disbanded.
State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed said President William Ruto had received and accepted Mugenda’s resignation.
The President acknowledged Professor Mugenda's significant contributions to the growth and development of KUTRRH during her tenure and also extended his gratitude for her service.
Further, Health CS directed CEO Ahmed Dagane to proceed on indefinite leave.
Zainab Gura has been appointed as the Acting CEO of KUTRRH.
Isaac Kamau, who was recently appointed by the board as Acting CEO, has been released from his duties and is directed to report to the Ministry of Health Headquarters.
